Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
I missed the first book in the series which probably would have been helpful, nonetheless it was a solid police procedural with good writing.

Wow, KAte Wiley has written another great novel featuring Detective Margot Phalen. A busy cop who along with her partner Wes are juggling deaths and snipers and although not many people know it but she is the daughter of a notorius serial killer, this serial killer likes to toy with Margot and keeps drip feeding her tidbits about some of his unsolved crimes so as she will keep visiting him in prison and as much as she doesn't want too the FBI keep pulling her back there.
The writing is well done and the characters are great and the sizzling chemistry between her and her partner is something I would like to see develop. I look forward to the next installment.

This is the first book I have read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, what I got was an intricately woven thriller, with fascinating characters, and a pleasing conclusion. Whilst this is book two in the Detective Margot Phalen series, it reads fine as a standalone as the author provides the right amount of the backstory to enable new readers to keep up.

For me, the standout character was serial killer, Ed Finch, and I really looked forward to the chapters featuring him. The author manages portray this vile man in a chilling way - she captures his manipulative and sinister side to perfection - the interactions between Ed and his daughter are incredibly intense and exceptionally well-written.

I was, however, a little thrown by the inclusion of the sniper and the murdered sex worker, and felt that, in places, the story was bouncing around a bit too much. We also have the ‘will they, won’t they’ relationship between Margot and her partner, Wes. I personally don’t enjoy these storylines, but I know they are popular with many readers. All in all, this is a well-written and gripping tale, and I am very much looking forward to the release of book three!

Fantastic book. Characters work well together. A very well thought out story. Can’t wait for the next instalment.

I haven't read the previous entry of the series, but it was fine, this worked as a standalone for the most part. Her Father's Secret is a well constructed thriller, with intriguing characters, with a satisfying conclusion. Ed is a particular standout, I actively looked forward to his parts, as the tension was so thick, and the dialogue was a careful game of chess.

I will say though, the internal dialogue needs to be cut down, it goes on too long at times, and kind of badgers the point home.

I love this series! I love that the main character and heroine has a serial killer as a father and that his story line is also told thorough these books. The plot was fantastic. It oozed suspense and creepiness. It moved at a fast pace and kept me guessing until the very last page. I can not wait until the next book!

Detective Phalen has worked hard to run from her past. Having a serial killer as a father has numerous drawbacks. But she’s a good detective who works hard to right the wrongs she’s able to. Then her father tells the FBI he will tell where some of his victims are IF his daughter comes to see him. Al this in the midst of numerous ongoing investigations and cases she’s working. I love the character of Margot and look forward to more stories with her!

One thing to note before staring this book, its a page turner.

From the moment i started the book i was captivated. I loved the way the characters are developing in the story, and that we really get to know them.

I really like a book that goes back and forth in time, and here we read about Margot as a woman, but also as a child through her fathers eyes.

Margot is an incredible strong woman. With the history of her father being a serial killer, losing her mother and having a difficult relationship with her brother. But at the same time she shows up to work, is strong, smart, tough and everything one can hope for in a police woman.

Her father decides that she needs to visit him in prison, and if she does, he will tell her a secret. So Margot teams up with the FBI and tries to talk to her father Ed Finch.

This book was really good, and i loved the story line. I will defiantly continue with the series and i am patiently waiting for the third book.

Her Father’s Secret, the second in the series, is a dark, fast-paced, thrilling novel. As an SFPD Detective, Margot Phalen works hard to solve the homicides that are given to her. Add to that the cold cases that daddy dearest, AKA serial killer Ed Finch, unveils during her few visits to San Quentin. As if that is not enough to keep her busy, it looks like her father has a fan copying his works. Another fantastic read by Kate Wiley. This is definitely a go-to author as she delivers every time. Storytelling was spot on, and the rich and engaging characters kept me turning the pages until the very end.

Daughter, now a fairly hard-nosed detective, but still reliving her traumatic past. Father in prison, serial killer and, frankly, a psychopath. Current investigations - sniper haphazardly killing people in touristy areas. Margot has her work cut out and there's a lot going on. She has a supportive work partner, Wes, but that's getting muddied by her feelings for him. Fast paced, a lot of action. A fast read but one that isn't tat memorable I'm afraid. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.

First page and I was hooked. I devoured this read in two days and I just couldn't stop. It was sooooo good!
There was so much going on, but not once did I actually get caught up in the chaos, somehow Wiley managed to lay it all out so perfectly, I didn't even blink, I just read.
Usually third pov books can be quite difficult for me to get into a good rhythm in before getting to enjoy the book, did not have that problem here at all!
Only once I finished this book did I realise it's part of a series. (So of course the first one is sitting in my tbr right now. ) it didn't feel like I was missing any foundation that has been laid out in the first book, it read so well as a standalone, excluding the cliffhanger ending.
Absolutely loved!!

LOVED! This is such a good back. This is book 2 in a series. I am going to go back and read the 1st one now! My first book by this author and will definitely be reading more by her again!

Wow!! Father’s a serial killer! Great twist & I can’t for more from this series! If you love physiological thrillers & the police being a main character this is for you! Also I live in the Bay Area where is is based; so, I am definite biased about where this book takes place.

This is our June 26th - mark your calendar. It’s also a KU book!

❤️ thanks to net galley & to the publisher for letting me review this arc.

Her Fathers Secret
By: Kate Wiley

5 Stars

Wes and Margot won me over in book 1. They are an awesome crime fighting duo. Book one was thrilling and mysterious, and this book just added more to make this a promising series.

This book was very well done. It was captivatingly written, as well as it being thrilling and action-packed. I think I enjoyed it more than the first one because it seemed more fast-paced. Ed Finch once again makes a serial killer interesting. In this story, Margot is wrapped up in a few different cases that will have lasting effects on her. Her visits with her father may solve an old crime of his, while leading her and the FBI to even more that he committed. Margot never knows who she will get or who she will be when it's all over.

I loved the ending and can't wait to read more from Margot, Wes, and yes, even Ed Finch.

*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*

Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review

A very intense and emotionally charged book. Simultaneously Margot has four different cases going on. She’s not having a good week. Her father, a convicted serial killer is playing games with Margot. I held my breath a lot throughout the book. It’s a roller coaster of a ride book. Lots of action and suspense. It’s masterly written and I highly recommend it. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Kate Wiley's Her Father’s Secret is a gripping thriller that delves deep into the psychological complexities of a detective haunted by her past. The story follows Detective Margot Phalen, who is confronted with the grisly discovery of a girl's body in a lake. The sight of her childhood toys alongside the body drags Margot back into a nightmarish reality she has tried to escape: her father is a notorious serial killer.

From the outset, Wiley masterfully sets a chilling tone, immersing readers in a world where the past is never truly buried. Margot is a compelling protagonist, characterized by her determination and the heavy burden of her lineage. Her struggle to forge her own identity while being the daughter of a monster is poignantly depicted, adding layers to her character that go beyond the typical detective archetype.

The plot thickens when Margot receives a message from her father, Ed Finch, who offers to reveal his darkest secret. This proposition sets the stage for a tense and emotionally charged narrative. Margot’s journey back to her father’s cell is fraught with dread, not just because of the secrets she might uncover, but because of the psychological toll it takes on her. Wiley excels in portraying the internal conflict Margot faces, torn between the need to solve the case and the fear of letting her father get under her skin once again.

Ed Finch is a menacing figure, his presence looming over the story even when he is off the page. Wiley’s portrayal of him is chillingly effective, capturing the manipulative and sinister nature of a serial killer who knows exactly how to push his daughter’s buttons. The interactions between Margot and Ed are some of the novel’s most intense moments, filled with psychological mind games that keep readers on edge.

The narrative is intricately woven, with Margot retracing the steps of the missing girl and delving into her family’s dark history. Each revelation is carefully placed, building suspense and keeping the reader guessing. The themes of the novel – the struggle with one's identity, the impact of a traumatic past, and the quest for truth – are explored with depth and sensitivity, making Margot’s journey resonate on an emotional level.

Wiley’s writing is taut and evocative, capturing the eerie atmosphere of the settings and the tension of the investigation. The pacing is well-maintained, with each chapter ending on a note that compels the reader to keep turning the pages. The use of Margot’s toys found with the body is a brilliant narrative device, tying her personal history to the current investigation and heightening the stakes.

Her Father’s Secret is not just a thriller; it is a psychological exploration of the effects of living in the shadow of a monstrous parent. Margot’s character is relatable in her vulnerability and admirable in her strength, making her a protagonist readers will root for. The supporting characters, though seen through Margot’s perspective, are also well-drawn, adding depth to the story.

Kate Wiley’s ability to blend a compelling crime narrative with a deep psychological profile of her protagonist sets Her Father’s Secret apart in the thriller genre. The novel’s exploration of dark family secrets, personal identity, and the haunting legacy of a serial killer father provides a rich and engaging reading experience.

Her Father’s Secret is a standout thriller that keeps readers hooked with its blend of suspense, emotional depth, and psychological complexity. Wiley’s skillful storytelling and her nuanced portrayal of Margot Phalen make this a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a haunting and unforgettable journey into the heart of darkness.

The Margot Phalen series has quickly become one of my absolute favorites this year. I was lucky enough to have received an ARC for the first book and fell in love with the characters and I'm so thankful and happy to have been able to read an ARC of Her Father's Secret

The characters have continued to grow on me, the premise and plot is intriguing, and I love the writing style. The dual POV between Margot and Ed Finch in his killing days were interesting and added a lot of depth to the story. I think Kate Wile does an excellent job portraying complex trauma, character arc growth, and a strong FMC who is 100% human.

I can honestly say that Kate Wiley has become an autobuy author for me. I absolutely cannot wait for book 3 to release!

Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the author Kate Wiley for my arc in exchange for my honest review :)

When I requested this book, I did not realize it was the second in a series. That did not trip me up at all, thank goodness.
I was immediately drawn in to the life of Megan/Margot, who is currently a detective for the SFPD, and also the daughter of a convicted serial killer. She changed her name for anonymity, and her boss and therapist are the only people in her everyday life who know her true identity.
While doing her normal job (no stress there) she is also pulled in by the FBI to help solve a cold case. A cold case her father fessed up to, but he will only give up the location of the body if she will meet with him in person.
This was a wild ride that I’m glad I got in line for! I will definitely go back and read the first in this series, and am eagerly awaiting the third.

I am loving this series! I read the first book right before this one and it’s safe to say I’m hooked!

While the twists in this book didn’t necessarily shock me, per se, there were still a lot of jaw dropping, WTF moments. Kate has a way of writing simply and giving you justttttt enough bait to keep you reading, but not more than that. She gets you with that slow burn. Her writing is addictive and I wish the entire series was already published so I could binge the whole thing right now 😅

I did feel that this second book got to be a bit too slow at certain points and I found myself losing interest at times (which was not the case for the first book). The pace could be picked up just a little 🤏🏼

Also, I am sooo looking forward to seeing how Margot and Wes’s relationship grows and (hopefully) blossoms over the course of this series 🥰 the tension is killing me.

Kate Wiley has quickly become of my most liked authors for this genre and I’m already waiting on the edge of my seat for the third book to be announced 😍

Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!

Kate Wiley (Sierra Dean) does it again! I really enjoyed this book. The story picks up a few months after the last book. Margot once again has to deal with Ed. He dangles another missing girl in her face and of course she takes the bait. As I said with The Killer's Daughter (Book 1) I love Margot. She has sass and her banter and relationship with Wes gives me life. I feel revived after reading this one as I did with last one. I for one do not care for Andrew though, there's just something there that I can't put my finger on.

This is a very easy read. I flew through this one. However, some of the chapters are quite long but with all the information you are given it is needed. If you make the chapters shorter it wouldn't flow as well. This story has the same writing from the first book. If you haven't read book 1 you need to read that one first, this is not a stand-alone book. A lot the information from book 1 you will need for this one.

I highly recommend this book. If you read and liked the first one, you will like this one as well I would give this book 4.5 ⭐️

Her Father's Secret will be available June 26, 2024.

I would like to thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book started out a bit slow but once it picked up, it really picked up. I enjoyed the characters and the interaction. I would be interested in reading more in this series just for the characters.