Unmarried

Unmarried by Emily Shiner
11/19/25; 310 pages
Bookouture
Perfect Couples #2 

Unmarried by Emily Shiner is a recommended psychological thriller. While you could read this as a standalone, it continues the story from Uninvited which I would suggest you read first. Some of the important plot points from Uninvited are in Unmarried and are definitely involved in the story.

Aimee has married Dr. Mitch Ellis after the death of her fiancé. Mitch is a wealthy and manipulative control freak. It is said that he killed his first wife, but Aimee has her own secret agenda. Hannah, Mitch's sister, also has plans of her own and will use anyone to get her way. Jackie is a woman who has a secret and it involves Mitch. She wants to warn Aimee about who he really is, but then Hannah sees her. The narrative is told through the point-of view of Aimee, Hannah, and Jackie and each of these women have their own secrets.

There is no doubt that a bunch of people with secrets who are planning schemes can be compelling and keep you reading to see what they do next. This is the reason I kept reading because every single character is scheming and planning some sort of subterfuge. However, this is also a plot that requires you to set a huge dose of disbelief aside and, although I can often do so, I wasn't able to muster the fortitude to do it this time. Admittedly, the events leading up to the twisty ending are entertaining.

None of the characters are even remotely believable or likable, which made any deep investment in the plot difficult. Perhaps if I had read the first book, I would care more.  Also, Mitch is so controlling, even to the point of having Aimee sign a contract, but some of the things he did made it hard to believe Aimee stayed. I've enjoyed many other books by Emily Shiner much more and look forward to her next book.

Unmarried is recommended for those who have read Uninvited and enjoy psychological thrillers. Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via . My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Deep End

The Deep End by Nick Louth
11/13/25; 324 pages
Canelo Crime
DI Jan Talantire #4

The Deep End by Nick Louth is a highly recommended procedural/crime thriller and the fourth book in the series set in Devon featuring DI Jan Talantire. Although this could be read as a standalone novel, there is a major part of the plot that is a direct continuation of a story line started earlier in the series. The series includes: The Two Deaths of Ruth Lyle, The Last Ride, and The Dark Edge. 

On Boxing Day a body wearing a wet suit is found under Teignmouth Pier. DI Jan Talantire is assigned the case after the post-mortem shows heavy metal poisoning and the investigation quickly becomes complicated. At the same time Talantire's sexual harassment case against Commander Brent West is on going and she uncovers additional information. She continues to face roadblocks as West's influence is wide spread.  

As expected, this is a well-written, expertly plotted addition to the series. The complicated investigation and subplots have plenty new discoveries made along the way. It is satisfying that Talantire finally sees vindication this time out, but she also faces a life or death situation. Talantire's character development is well established by this addition to the series. She is portrayed as a tough, intelligent and compelling character with strengths and flaws.

The Deep End will best be appreciated by readers who enjoy procedurals and who have read the previous books in the series. Thanks to Canelo Crime for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.