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Last One Out
Chloe Webster is supposed to be dead.
She vanished twenty five years ago—the night her two friends were brutally murdered at an isolated hot springs. At least, that’s what everyone believes.
Everyone except her cousin, Frankie, who never lost hope that Chloe was alive.
When Chloe unexpectedly shows up at her own annual memorial event, Frankie is overjoyed. But this isn’t the reunion she imagined. Chloe has no memory of that night in 1999—or her life before.
Then Frankie starts getting cryptic messages that imply Chloe knows more than she’s letting on. Frankie wants to trust her cousin, but even more, she wants answers to the questions that have plagued her for decades.
But is the truth really worth uncovering at any cost?
She vanished twenty five years ago—the night her two friends were brutally murdered at an isolated hot springs. At least, that’s what everyone believes.
Everyone except her cousin, Frankie, who never lost hope that Chloe was alive.
When Chloe unexpectedly shows up at her own annual memorial event, Frankie is overjoyed. But this isn’t the reunion she imagined. Chloe has no memory of that night in 1999—or her life before.
Then Frankie starts getting cryptic messages that imply Chloe knows more than she’s letting on. Frankie wants to trust her cousin, but even more, she wants answers to the questions that have plagued her for decades.
But is the truth really worth uncovering at any cost?
336 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2025
2382 people are currently reading
20318 people want to read
About the author
Steph Nelson
16 books496 followersA lifelong PNW girl, Steph currently lives in Boise, Idaho.
Her books have been reviewed in the New York Times and Library Journal.
She loves long walks by the Boise River, thrifting for vintage clothing, yoga, traveling just about anywhere, and devouring books.
Find her on Instagram/Threads: @stephnelsonauthor
Her books have been reviewed in the New York Times and Library Journal.
She loves long walks by the Boise River, thrifting for vintage clothing, yoga, traveling just about anywhere, and devouring books.
Find her on Instagram/Threads: @stephnelsonauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 861 reviews
November 18, 2025
✨I fucking hate the world for the way it treats anyone who isn't a man✨
This was a difficult read for sure as the things the girls in here have endured are so hard to digest, and move on from, and I truly wish no one has to go through things like that irl.
⚠️Look up trigger warnings before you read this one!!!
What can you expect
- Dark & traumatic thriller
- An infamous case with loose ends
- Dual timelines & multiple povs
- Fast paced plot that's unputdownable
- Short chapters with cliffhangers
- Shocking twists
1999 - When the three girls, Amy, Kristi and Chloe go to the Hot Springs to celebrate their start of the senior year, they do not expect to be hunted down by someone with a bow and arrow, much less think it'd be their last day alive.
25 years later - Only the bodies of Amy & Kristi were found which made Chloe's cousin, Frankie to believe that Chloe might be alive somewhere, and when Chloe returns now on the anniversary of the infamous incident, Frankie doesn't know whether to believe Chloe's claim of memory loss or suspect that she knows more than she's letting on.
I think this would be a perfect thriller to check out if you're a beginner of the genre cuz it reads super fast & the writing is accessible too. But for someone like me who's read quite a few thrillers, this fell short as it was extremely predictable, and felt repetitive too.
Also the twist at the end of Part 1 is something you could really see coming if you've been paying attention to the details. But the second half just flew by & the final twist was a bit shocking indeed.
But what bothered me the most was the character, Frankie!!! We get her pov in the present where she's in her 40s but she reads so much like a teenager with all her whining, gullible nature and being an expert at making wrong decisions. Seriously, there's this scene at the end where you'd roll your eyes at her for doing what she does cuz who in their right mind would make that decision when you've literally been fighting for your life😮💨🤦🏻♀️ (could spoil in private chats if you want or I'm available to rant if you've read this book as well.)
As a contrast, Chloe in the past reads so much mature even though she was just 18. She handles things with ease, and makes decisions after thinking it through, and she's also super brave when faced with adversities. She was quite admirable too, and she's the sole reason I kept reading the book. And I was pretty satisfied with the story as a whole but just felt a bit underwhelmed with the reveals.
This one's the first book by this author I've read, and I'm really intrigued to try more as she knows how to write a compelling thriller with the perfect amount of suspense. And I hope I like her other works a lot more than this one.
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this if you're looking for a quick read but be mindful of the trigger warnings as this gets really dark & touches on some difficult topics.
This was a difficult read for sure as the things the girls in here have endured are so hard to digest, and move on from, and I truly wish no one has to go through things like that irl.
⚠️Look up trigger warnings before you read this one!!!
What can you expect
- Dark & traumatic thriller
- An infamous case with loose ends
- Dual timelines & multiple povs
- Fast paced plot that's unputdownable
- Short chapters with cliffhangers
- Shocking twists
1999 - When the three girls, Amy, Kristi and Chloe go to the Hot Springs to celebrate their start of the senior year, they do not expect to be hunted down by someone with a bow and arrow, much less think it'd be their last day alive.
25 years later - Only the bodies of Amy & Kristi were found which made Chloe's cousin, Frankie to believe that Chloe might be alive somewhere, and when Chloe returns now on the anniversary of the infamous incident, Frankie doesn't know whether to believe Chloe's claim of memory loss or suspect that she knows more than she's letting on.
I think this would be a perfect thriller to check out if you're a beginner of the genre cuz it reads super fast & the writing is accessible too. But for someone like me who's read quite a few thrillers, this fell short as it was extremely predictable, and felt repetitive too.
Also the twist at the end of Part 1 is something you could really see coming if you've been paying attention to the details. But the second half just flew by & the final twist was a bit shocking indeed.
But what bothered me the most was the character, Frankie!!! We get her pov in the present where she's in her 40s but she reads so much like a teenager with all her whining, gullible nature and being an expert at making wrong decisions. Seriously, there's this scene at the end where you'd roll your eyes at her for doing what she does cuz who in their right mind would make that decision when you've literally been fighting for your life😮💨🤦🏻♀️ (could spoil in private chats if you want or I'm available to rant if you've read this book as well.)
As a contrast, Chloe in the past reads so much mature even though she was just 18. She handles things with ease, and makes decisions after thinking it through, and she's also super brave when faced with adversities. She was quite admirable too, and she's the sole reason I kept reading the book. And I was pretty satisfied with the story as a whole but just felt a bit underwhelmed with the reveals.
This one's the first book by this author I've read, and I'm really intrigued to try more as she knows how to write a compelling thriller with the perfect amount of suspense. And I hope I like her other works a lot more than this one.
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this if you're looking for a quick read but be mindful of the trigger warnings as this gets really dark & touches on some difficult topics.
April 23, 2025
4/5 ✩
”You’re a psychopath, and you’re dead to me.”
Thank you NetGalley and Ticking Clock Press for providing me with this ARC.
PERSONAL SUMMARY
Last One Out is a dual-timeline narrative following two cousins - Chloe, who disappeared back in 1999, and Frankie, who is still holding out hope that her cousin is out there somewhere. This was such an exciting thriller, with difficult though potent emotional themes, and lead characters with strength and resilience that had me rooting for them throughout. Although there are certain plot themes or characters that didn’t entirely work for me, Nelson kept the narrative very centrally-focused, allowing my nitpicks to fall to the wayside.
R.E.A.D.S. SCORE
R: 7/10
E: 8/10
A: 8/10
D: 8/10
S: 7/10
Total: 7.60/10.00
”You’re a psychopath, and you’re dead to me.”
Thank you NetGalley and Ticking Clock Press for providing me with this ARC.
PERSONAL SUMMARY
Last One Out is a dual-timeline narrative following two cousins - Chloe, who disappeared back in 1999, and Frankie, who is still holding out hope that her cousin is out there somewhere. This was such an exciting thriller, with difficult though potent emotional themes, and lead characters with strength and resilience that had me rooting for them throughout. Although there are certain plot themes or characters that didn’t entirely work for me, Nelson kept the narrative very centrally-focused, allowing my nitpicks to fall to the wayside.
R.E.A.D.S. SCORE
R: 7/10
E: 8/10
A: 8/10
D: 8/10
S: 7/10
Total: 7.60/10.00
April 5, 2025
Unfortunately this book was very predictable with horrible dialogue. I tried to push through but by the 20% mark I was mostly skimming. Some aspects I did find unbelievable. The premise was interesting but the plot failed to be executed properly. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
July 13, 2025
"When your life is full of trauma, you have to find ways to come to the surface for air. you can't live in those deep dark waters of fear, sadness, and shame every moment of every day or you'll drown."
Frankie and Chloe are cousins that are more like sisters and best friends. When Chloe goes missing after a trip with friends to a hot springs, Frankie never stops hoping to find her. When Chloe returns five years after she disappeared, Frankie is ecstatic but she still has no answers because Chloe has memory loss. What happened during the five years she was missing?!
Told in multiple POVs and dual timelines, I couldn't fly through this fast enough. It's riveting, intense, suspenseful and has the perfect blend of mystery mixed with poignant moments and heart. What really shines through are the women in the story; they are tenacious, brave, courageous, determined, hopeful and love fiercely. Despite the horrific circumstances...and yes, there are some truly terrible things mentioned, there is above all else, undying love. This is a twisty one too, and though I was able to see them coming, it in no way diminished this fabulously spun tale!
You simply MUST listen to the audiobook. I cannot recommend it enough. Just don't listen to it if you expect to sleep because Leslie Howard's performance is OUTSTANDING and is full of propulsive energy and emotion!
LAST ONE OUT is in some ways, every woman's worst nightmare and in others is a testament to love and friendship, to the ties that bind us together. If you're a thriller lover who appreciates a tense edge-of-your seat mystery combined with a whodunit and characters you will love to root for, SNATCH. THIS. UP. IMMEDIATELY!
____
Thank you Steph Nelson and Simon Maverick for my free copies. All opinions are my own.
Frankie and Chloe are cousins that are more like sisters and best friends. When Chloe goes missing after a trip with friends to a hot springs, Frankie never stops hoping to find her. When Chloe returns five years after she disappeared, Frankie is ecstatic but she still has no answers because Chloe has memory loss. What happened during the five years she was missing?!
Told in multiple POVs and dual timelines, I couldn't fly through this fast enough. It's riveting, intense, suspenseful and has the perfect blend of mystery mixed with poignant moments and heart. What really shines through are the women in the story; they are tenacious, brave, courageous, determined, hopeful and love fiercely. Despite the horrific circumstances...and yes, there are some truly terrible things mentioned, there is above all else, undying love. This is a twisty one too, and though I was able to see them coming, it in no way diminished this fabulously spun tale!
You simply MUST listen to the audiobook. I cannot recommend it enough. Just don't listen to it if you expect to sleep because Leslie Howard's performance is OUTSTANDING and is full of propulsive energy and emotion!
LAST ONE OUT is in some ways, every woman's worst nightmare and in others is a testament to love and friendship, to the ties that bind us together. If you're a thriller lover who appreciates a tense edge-of-your seat mystery combined with a whodunit and characters you will love to root for, SNATCH. THIS. UP. IMMEDIATELY!
____
Thank you Steph Nelson and Simon Maverick for my free copies. All opinions are my own.
July 18, 2025
#ad much love for my ALC @libro.fm #partner
Kristi, Amy, and Chloe are best friends. Though Kristi and Amy are fraternal twins, the three of them are as tight as friends can be. As they’re visiting the hot springs late one night all three of their lives change forever. Now it’s 25 years later and Frankie is still searching for answers to what happened to her best friend - Chloe - that night and why she has never been found.
HOLY CRAPPERS ON A STICK! 🙌🏻🥳 Nelson DELIVERED with this book! By the end of chapter two you’ll be fully invested. I went in blind - as I do most of Nelson’s books - and my jaw was on the floor. Such a good one.
Last One Out by Steph Nelson is an action-packed, fast-paced thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. I love a good kidnapping book so I read this in one sitting.
While I saw the twist coming, I fully enjoyed the ride. It’s a tense one - your heart will be racing. Such a good one.
Memorable:
Screaming into pillows
Bill Clinton mask - nothing more horrifying 😂
Raymond Snowden
Cannot wait to see what’s up next! I just love this author and the stuff she comes up with - always a fab read.
🎧 Also listened to the audio while following along and the narrator did a fantastic job bringing this book to life. She does the different voices so well and it was just a great listen all around.
Kristi, Amy, and Chloe are best friends. Though Kristi and Amy are fraternal twins, the three of them are as tight as friends can be. As they’re visiting the hot springs late one night all three of their lives change forever. Now it’s 25 years later and Frankie is still searching for answers to what happened to her best friend - Chloe - that night and why she has never been found.
HOLY CRAPPERS ON A STICK! 🙌🏻🥳 Nelson DELIVERED with this book! By the end of chapter two you’ll be fully invested. I went in blind - as I do most of Nelson’s books - and my jaw was on the floor. Such a good one.
Last One Out by Steph Nelson is an action-packed, fast-paced thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. I love a good kidnapping book so I read this in one sitting.
While I saw the twist coming, I fully enjoyed the ride. It’s a tense one - your heart will be racing. Such a good one.
Memorable:
Screaming into pillows
Bill Clinton mask - nothing more horrifying 😂
Raymond Snowden
Cannot wait to see what’s up next! I just love this author and the stuff she comes up with - always a fab read.
🎧 Also listened to the audio while following along and the narrator did a fantastic job bringing this book to life. She does the different voices so well and it was just a great listen all around.
September 21, 2025
Story & audio 3.75 stars**
Narrator Leslie Howard
Narrator Leslie Howard
April 7, 2025
3.75 stars - thank you NetGalley for the early copy in exchange for my honest feedback
I really enjoyed how this book was multiple layers of messed up. It was fast paced, had lots of twists, and I just flew through it.
I read it during a day I was vlogging so here the link: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8jYMugT/
I really enjoyed how this book was multiple layers of messed up. It was fast paced, had lots of twists, and I just flew through it.
I read it during a day I was vlogging so here the link: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8jYMugT/
August 12, 2025
The Thriller That Broke Me (In the Best Way) — 4.5 Stars of Pure Tension 🔥
Heavy themes ahead, besties — off-page sex trafficking, pedophilia, confinement, death, kidnapping, and murder — but Steph Nelson doesn’t just touch these; she crafts a MASTERPIECE thriller drama that grabs your soul and never lets go.
⚡ Meet the players:
Chloe Webster is supposed to be dead. Like, twenty-five years gone, legend-status dead. But then—BAM!—she strolls back into her own memorial like she’s just crashing the party. Cue Frankie, her cousin, who’s loyal, a little frazzled, and desperate for the truth.
Chloe claims she has no memory of the night two friends were murdered at a creepy hot springs (because, obviously, it had to be a hot springs—nothing good ever happens at those, duh). But cryptic messages suggest otherwise… and the paranoia? Palpable.
🍝 Characters: Layered like your favorite lasagna — Frankie’s fierce, determined, and borderline losing it trying to solve the mystery. Chloe? An enigma wrapped in a gaslight-y mystery sauce. Hug her? Run? I couldn’t decide.
🎬 Writing style: Cinematic and tense, packed with emotional gut punches and sharp sass. Perfect if you love Noelle Ihli’s pacing or Stacy Willingham’s slow-burn reveals.
💥 Bottom line: Family loyalty crashing into decades-old trauma = a thriller that had me turning pages like I was defusing a bomb. Sleep? Overrated. Pick this up and prepare to be hooked.
Heavy themes ahead, besties — off-page sex trafficking, pedophilia, confinement, death, kidnapping, and murder — but Steph Nelson doesn’t just touch these; she crafts a MASTERPIECE thriller drama that grabs your soul and never lets go.
⚡ Meet the players:
Chloe Webster is supposed to be dead. Like, twenty-five years gone, legend-status dead. But then—BAM!—she strolls back into her own memorial like she’s just crashing the party. Cue Frankie, her cousin, who’s loyal, a little frazzled, and desperate for the truth.
Chloe claims she has no memory of the night two friends were murdered at a creepy hot springs (because, obviously, it had to be a hot springs—nothing good ever happens at those, duh). But cryptic messages suggest otherwise… and the paranoia? Palpable.
🍝 Characters: Layered like your favorite lasagna — Frankie’s fierce, determined, and borderline losing it trying to solve the mystery. Chloe? An enigma wrapped in a gaslight-y mystery sauce. Hug her? Run? I couldn’t decide.
🎬 Writing style: Cinematic and tense, packed with emotional gut punches and sharp sass. Perfect if you love Noelle Ihli’s pacing or Stacy Willingham’s slow-burn reveals.
💥 Bottom line: Family loyalty crashing into decades-old trauma = a thriller that had me turning pages like I was defusing a bomb. Sleep? Overrated. Pick this up and prepare to be hooked.
July 31, 2025
2.25⭐
I don't know why, but I couldn't connect to the writing or the characters. Even my interest in the story line was very light. And the ending didn't satisfy me at all, there are lost of plot holes and messing details that I wanted to know. About 75% of the book was so slow, flash backs, now days events that's not very useful for the case, and then the remaining 25% was rushed, everything unravels in unfair way and I left craving for more informations or at least to process well in a logical way. Also some events were very dramatic and not realistic at all, even the plot twists weren't shocking aside from just one. And don't let me start complaining about the whole human trafficking thing, I'm so interested in this topic generally but here the representation of it didn't take a proper place, or deep digging in a complicated issue like this. I really wanted to love the book or at least like it but the same issue with my last thriller read; nothing made sense even if it's attention keeper.
***
Another blind read because of the cover only.
I don't know why, but I couldn't connect to the writing or the characters. Even my interest in the story line was very light. And the ending didn't satisfy me at all, there are lost of plot holes and messing details that I wanted to know. About 75% of the book was so slow, flash backs, now days events that's not very useful for the case, and then the remaining 25% was rushed, everything unravels in unfair way and I left craving for more informations or at least to process well in a logical way. Also some events were very dramatic and not realistic at all, even the plot twists weren't shocking aside from just one. And don't let me start complaining about the whole human trafficking thing, I'm so interested in this topic generally but here the representation of it didn't take a proper place, or deep digging in a complicated issue like this. I really wanted to love the book or at least like it but the same issue with my last thriller read; nothing made sense even if it's attention keeper.
***
Another blind read because of the cover only.
May 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ (Rounded up)
Last One Out is a gripping psychological thriller that combines an unsolved missing person case with themes of memory, trauma, and revenge. The story begins in 1999, when Chloe Webster vanishes on a fatal night at an isolated hot springs, where her two best friends were brutally murdered in front of her. After missing for years, she's presumed dead and becomes the subject of an annual memorial organized by her cousin, Frankie. Amazingly, Chloe reappears at the memorial 25 years later, claiming amnesia of everything that happened on and before that fateful night. As Frankie seeks answers from Chloe, she begins receiving cryptic messages saying Chloe knows more than she admits, leading her on a dangerous investigation.
The story is told in a captivating dual timeline & dual POV format, alternating between Chloe’s experiences during her captivity and Frankie’s present-day investigations. The author cleverly builds suspense and includes several mini cliffhangers before switching perspectives to keep readers furiously turning the pages. Through Chloe's claimed amnesia, the book explores themes of memory loss, identity, and the long-term effects of trauma. Readers should also be prepared for major triggers, including body violence, murder scenes, psychological manipulation, and human trafficking (though not depicted explicitly).
The characters are multi-dimensional and all harbor secrets. Frankie is a complex protagonist who’s both frustrating and admirable. Losing her mother at an early age and never getting over her cousin’s disappearance has left visible scars, and consequently, she has a difficult time letting people in—very evident in her casual relationship with Jensen, who craves more in their relationship. The only family Frankie has left is her father, who is often absent and inattentive. When Chloe returns, Frankie’s initial reaction is unusual and almost implausible—readers will have to suspend their disbelief at her lack of questioning Chloe, whose story is full of holes. The circumstances that unfold during Chloe’s POV during her captivity in the past are disturbing and heartbreaking—but readers will admire her tenacity and will to survive! By the start of the second half, the author makes almost all the characters suspicious and plants clever red herrings and detours that keep readers guessing.
The pacing is relentless throughout, and the chapters are short and addictive, making for a quick, highly bingeable read. Seasoned thriller readers may find some early twists predictable—but rest assured, plenty more twists and turns are waiting in the wings, including jaw-dropping reveals at the very end that will take readers completely by surprise! The climax of the story is also a wild ride of emotional intensity and lingers afterwards. After such tension, the final “epilogue-style” chapter feels a bit rushed and ends abruptly, leaving the impression that the characters have more to say. It may have been intentional by the author, as it makes the story even more thought-provoking.
Overall, Last One Out is a gripping and emotionally charged psychological thriller. While the story is not the most intricate, the engrossing narrative and shocking twists make this book stand out and worthy of a binge read! Readers who enjoy unputdownable, twisty thrillers with dual timelines and compelling characters should immediately grab a copy of this book! It’s guaranteed to be one of your fastest reads this year!
Last One Out is a gripping psychological thriller that combines an unsolved missing person case with themes of memory, trauma, and revenge. The story begins in 1999, when Chloe Webster vanishes on a fatal night at an isolated hot springs, where her two best friends were brutally murdered in front of her. After missing for years, she's presumed dead and becomes the subject of an annual memorial organized by her cousin, Frankie. Amazingly, Chloe reappears at the memorial 25 years later, claiming amnesia of everything that happened on and before that fateful night. As Frankie seeks answers from Chloe, she begins receiving cryptic messages saying Chloe knows more than she admits, leading her on a dangerous investigation.
The story is told in a captivating dual timeline & dual POV format, alternating between Chloe’s experiences during her captivity and Frankie’s present-day investigations. The author cleverly builds suspense and includes several mini cliffhangers before switching perspectives to keep readers furiously turning the pages. Through Chloe's claimed amnesia, the book explores themes of memory loss, identity, and the long-term effects of trauma. Readers should also be prepared for major triggers, including body violence, murder scenes, psychological manipulation, and human trafficking (though not depicted explicitly).
The characters are multi-dimensional and all harbor secrets. Frankie is a complex protagonist who’s both frustrating and admirable. Losing her mother at an early age and never getting over her cousin’s disappearance has left visible scars, and consequently, she has a difficult time letting people in—very evident in her casual relationship with Jensen, who craves more in their relationship. The only family Frankie has left is her father, who is often absent and inattentive. When Chloe returns, Frankie’s initial reaction is unusual and almost implausible—readers will have to suspend their disbelief at her lack of questioning Chloe, whose story is full of holes. The circumstances that unfold during Chloe’s POV during her captivity in the past are disturbing and heartbreaking—but readers will admire her tenacity and will to survive! By the start of the second half, the author makes almost all the characters suspicious and plants clever red herrings and detours that keep readers guessing.
The pacing is relentless throughout, and the chapters are short and addictive, making for a quick, highly bingeable read. Seasoned thriller readers may find some early twists predictable—but rest assured, plenty more twists and turns are waiting in the wings, including jaw-dropping reveals at the very end that will take readers completely by surprise! The climax of the story is also a wild ride of emotional intensity and lingers afterwards. After such tension, the final “epilogue-style” chapter feels a bit rushed and ends abruptly, leaving the impression that the characters have more to say. It may have been intentional by the author, as it makes the story even more thought-provoking.
Overall, Last One Out is a gripping and emotionally charged psychological thriller. While the story is not the most intricate, the engrossing narrative and shocking twists make this book stand out and worthy of a binge read! Readers who enjoy unputdownable, twisty thrillers with dual timelines and compelling characters should immediately grab a copy of this book! It’s guaranteed to be one of your fastest reads this year!
October 27, 2025
I saw the 'plot twists' coming from a mile away, unfortunately.
April 11, 2025
Steph Nelson absolutely nails the thriller genre yet again! Each of her three books that I've read now have had very different premises, but still feature that signature dark and twisty plot that I've come to know and love from this author. I'm a big fan of the "missing person who returns years later" troupe and felt this one was done really well - definitely recommend picking this up if you enjoyed books such as Then She Returned by Lucinda Berry.
While there are definitely trigger warnings to look up if you have any triggers around children or SA, I think as long as you go in being aware of these that you'll really enjoy your time with this one as well. Huge thank you to Steph and Ticking Clock Press for my early review copy!
While there are definitely trigger warnings to look up if you have any triggers around children or SA, I think as long as you go in being aware of these that you'll really enjoy your time with this one as well. Huge thank you to Steph and Ticking Clock Press for my early review copy!
December 8, 2025
Last One Out hooked me early, around 4% in. I was completely invested and already trying to piece together the secrets simmering beneath the surface. The mysterious pregnancy instantly raised questions, and it becomes clear there’s far more to the situation than Chloe was letting on. I loved how Steph Nelson slowly unraveled this thread while still keeping me guessing.
The alternating timelines, before, during, and after the traumatic events was a highlight for me. This added so much depth and tension, and gave a full picture of what truly happened.
The audiobook narration was great and matched the tone of this story, elevating the emotions and suspense in all the right ways.
Chloe’s “miraculous return” gave me pause for a moment, but the details surrounding her disappearance drew me back in and had me questioning every character’s motives. Overall, an enjoyable read!
The alternating timelines, before, during, and after the traumatic events was a highlight for me. This added so much depth and tension, and gave a full picture of what truly happened.
The audiobook narration was great and matched the tone of this story, elevating the emotions and suspense in all the right ways.
Chloe’s “miraculous return” gave me pause for a moment, but the details surrounding her disappearance drew me back in and had me questioning every character’s motives. Overall, an enjoyable read!
June 4, 2025
4.5
thrillers are so back!! this was fantastic. i will say i cannot give it the full five because the beginning was definitely slow. however, especially in part two, this book picked up significantly and was a true thriller. i will say there are some plot twists that i think are predictable, but thats why this is more a thriller than a mystery.
thrillers are so back!! this was fantastic. i will say i cannot give it the full five because the beginning was definitely slow. however, especially in part two, this book picked up significantly and was a true thriller. i will say there are some plot twists that i think are predictable, but thats why this is more a thriller than a mystery.
June 2, 2025
This wasnt what I was expecting when so many people recommended it. While I enjoyed the multiple view point storytelling, many aspects felt completely unbelievable and predictable. A lot of dialog fell flat for me. No hate for those that enjoyed it, but I expected and wanted more.
July 16, 2025
This was a pleasant surprise and I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did! The alternating timelines between past and present kept me hooked and fully invested in the story. The story was fast paced especially the last third to the point I could not put the book down. I had an idea of what was happening early on and while I ended up being right, I was still shocked to see it play out. Some parts can be triggering for some readers, but I appreciated that the author didn’t dive into graphic detail. Instead they gave just enough for you to understand and fill in the blanks without feeling overwhelmed. This was my first book by this author and will not be my last!
May 30, 2025
KU 4.5⭐️
June 17, 2025
This book was SO GOOD 🙌🏻 It kept me on the edge of my seat and I had NO idea what was going to happen! The ending was like 😳😳😳 I highly recommend this book to anyone! Also, this is probably the fastest I’ve ever read a book, so that should tell you something 😉
October 5, 2025
Demasiado predecible y con situaciones muy difíciles de creer. 2 ⭐️
January 14, 2026
A pretty good thriller. :)
June 16, 2025
Thank you to Simon Maverick Audio for my #gifted ALC.
LAST ONE OUT is a real nail biter! So be prepared for a fast-paced story that you won’t be able to stop listening to. I went into this blind, not knowing what it was about so I was happy there were trigger warnings at the beginning. The story switches from past to present timelines but it was easy to follow. I really felt for these girls, but in the end, I was happy with the resolution.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account @coffee.break.book.reviews shortly
LAST ONE OUT is a real nail biter! So be prepared for a fast-paced story that you won’t be able to stop listening to. I went into this blind, not knowing what it was about so I was happy there were trigger warnings at the beginning. The story switches from past to present timelines but it was easy to follow. I really felt for these girls, but in the end, I was happy with the resolution.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account @coffee.break.book.reviews shortly
September 12, 2025
2.5. I fear I am in the minority with this book. It’s definitely a popcorn thriller and is incredibly Freida McFadden coded. I genuinely appreciated that there was a trigger warning at the beginning of this book for subject matter which is something I feel strongly should be implemented more in literature. I personally found the plot predictable, the dialogue fell flat, and there seemed to be several plot holes glossed over.
June 24, 2025
This was sooo good. A very pleasant surprise, the first chapter a bit of a rough start for me but I’m so glad I didn’t stop then. I actually tried to stop reading because I didn’t want to finish this so soon!
May 10, 2025
Rounded up from 4.5 stars -
I really liked the way this book was written. By reading the blurb, you kind of already know what’s going to happen (at the beginning at least) but the way it happens strikes up so much suspense. And that’s just the beginning. The plot is perfectly written to keep you engaged through the entirety of the book, even between the crazy start and the plot twists at the end. And the author does a fantastic job at making sure you have reasons not to trust a single person.
While I will admit some of my guesses were so far off, some of them were spot on as well. You quickly get the hint that whoever is behind the Clinton mask is someone that knows Chloe. And while you’re set up not to trust anyone in the book, there are only a few prominent characters to choose from, so some of the plot twists, while still super entertaining & satisfying, weren’t as jaw-dropping as others. But there are plenty of crazy twists in this book that will knock your socks off. And the way everything comes together is so perfect in the most grotesque, gut wrenching way!
Thanks a bunch to Netgalley & Ticking Clock Press for the early copy!
I really liked the way this book was written. By reading the blurb, you kind of already know what’s going to happen (at the beginning at least) but the way it happens strikes up so much suspense. And that’s just the beginning. The plot is perfectly written to keep you engaged through the entirety of the book, even between the crazy start and the plot twists at the end. And the author does a fantastic job at making sure you have reasons not to trust a single person.
While I will admit some of my guesses were so far off, some of them were spot on as well. You quickly get the hint that whoever is behind the Clinton mask is someone that knows Chloe. And while you’re set up not to trust anyone in the book, there are only a few prominent characters to choose from, so some of the plot twists, while still super entertaining & satisfying, weren’t as jaw-dropping as others. But there are plenty of crazy twists in this book that will knock your socks off. And the way everything comes together is so perfect in the most grotesque, gut wrenching way!
Thanks a bunch to Netgalley & Ticking Clock Press for the early copy!
October 19, 2025
I will start by saying this book has, rightfully so, quite a few trigger warnings so be prepared for that off the bat.
This is a story that flips between POVs and timelines, so if that isn’t your jam, this book isn’t for you. Thankfully the author is very clear about the changes, though, so you know what’s going on.
I don’t quite know how to feel about or rate this book. I found myself emotionally attacked to the female leads and wanting to know their stories, but as the same time I felt the character development was somewhat lacking, especially with Frankie. The book itself was reasonably predictable, but I still held onto every word to see what the author was going to throw our way.
Not the best. Not the worst. I’d def try the author again.
This is a story that flips between POVs and timelines, so if that isn’t your jam, this book isn’t for you. Thankfully the author is very clear about the changes, though, so you know what’s going on.
I don’t quite know how to feel about or rate this book. I found myself emotionally attacked to the female leads and wanting to know their stories, but as the same time I felt the character development was somewhat lacking, especially with Frankie. The book itself was reasonably predictable, but I still held onto every word to see what the author was going to throw our way.
Not the best. Not the worst. I’d def try the author again.
January 5, 2026
This was a big game of cat and mouse. You need to carve a day out and just read until you see the QR code. The beginning with the 3 friends is so cute and teenage girl love. The next chapter changes everything.
Really good scenery of Idaho and the author makes you feel the cold. A few things happen that catapult the good versus evil.
This is a must read
Really good scenery of Idaho and the author makes you feel the cold. A few things happen that catapult the good versus evil.
This is a must read
July 17, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | This was one very messed up and twisty read and, yes, I enjoyed every minute of it.
September 17, 2025
This book was so good! I had lots of theories while reading this and one of them was confirmed halfway through but it did not take away from that ending.
April 8, 2025
After reading “The final Scene”, I knew I had to read Steph Nelson’s newest book and I was not disappointed!! This was truly a WILD ride and nonstop action from beginning to end. Very fast paced and I couldn’t put it down!
September 21, 2025
Ok fast paced fucked up thriller
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