The Truth About Unspeakable Things

by Emily A. Myers

Book #1 of the Unspeakable Duet -- WINNER of the Chanticleer International Book Awards Clue Award (2021) for Suspense/ Thriller fiction!!!

“He did more than break your heart, didn’t he?”

When a break-up turns violent, Emma Marshall's uneventful life is turned upside down. In her new neighbor, Julian, Emma finds hope—hope that she can love again. But, the secrets of her past and threatening ex keep her from moving forward until she decides to take matters into her own hands. As Emma seeks justice, she is dragged into a world of sex, secrets, and sins ruled by members of the New Orleans elite. Fighting for her life and the ones she loves may just be the death of her, at least the version of herself she's always known.

"There are no angels in Hell. If I want to survive, then I'll become the monster I must."

From award-winning novelist, Emily A. Myers, comes an unforgettable, fast-paced romantic thriller about one woman’s journey from brokenness to wholeness. Her journey just so happens to be filled with heart-racing suspense and unspeakable truths that will leave readers screaming, crying, cursing and turning the pages faster than they realize.

"An amalgamation of Nicholas Sparks' deeply emotive writing and the twisted, traumatic themes of Netflix's 'The Sinner,'" The Truth About Unspeakable Things is sure to be your next best read.

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Thriller, Contemporary, Thriller Suspense, Mystery Thriller, Mystery

329 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 6, 2021

About the author

Hi everyone and welcome to my Goodreads page! I am an award-winning romantic suspense author and am most known for my mafia romance series, Blood and Bourbon.

Find me on Instagram and other platforms @emilymyersauthor

Find my books on Amazon.

Reviews

[Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I opened the box when the mail currier handed it to me. I sat down outside and read this book from cover to cover. Wow, what did I just read. Myers out did herself and this was her debut book.
The unthinkable happened and I was thinking the whole time is no way would I forgive this monster.
This was such a great read very well written and the plot oh my so worth the read.
I HIGHLY recommend this 5 star book. I can not wait for Myers next book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.

[Krista · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a bit of a weird one for me. I thought I was going to read one thing and got something quite different.

I assumed it would be a story about the survivor of a traumatic event and how she moves on from that. It started that way and then turned into this whole other thing. This book felt like it was having an identity crisis. Is it meant to be an emotional story about some really serious topics or something lighter with plots points added for entertainment and shock value.

Some of the events ended up being too far fetched to be enjoyable. I also didn’t really understand why Emma reacted the way she did to Julian in the beginning, almost as though there was meant to be an enemies to lovers dynamic but it didn’t land.

I wanted to enjoy this more but it just wasn’t for me.

I was provided an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Lisa Konet · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book may not be for every reader given some heavy trigger topics (rape, abuse, family domestic issues) but them main character of Emma is portrayed well. I was rooting for her comeback and journey to heal the whole way. The first few chapters start out with a bang and there are several more twists following that. I like that the ending was not all nice, neat and fluffy, it would not have suited the rest of the book. I am also so glad Julian entered the story as a new potential interest for Emma after her ex, Beaux. Julian has own traumatic past too and I think they connected well on that. I do not want to spoil anymore. Not your usual thriller if you like a story with a detective element, but still worth the read.

Thanks to Netgalley, Emily A Myers and Emily Myers Independent Book Publisher's Association Member Titles fpr an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Available: 4/6/21

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is nothing like I expected. I had a preconceived idea from the first few pages and I was thinking ho hum another story like many others. Boy was I wrong!! Emma's story captivated me. She shows she is a strong woman who rises from her experiences and aspires to help others in her situation. This story is well written with the ability to knock your socks off. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy stories about strong female characters who overcome their obstacles. I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.

[Lyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know what I was expecting going into this book but it wasn't THAT. What an emotional roller coaster with some heavy themes like SA (nothing graphic) but also so empowering...
Not my typical read as I'm usually trying to escape life in a fantasy world, but I'm glad I took a chance on it.

[Siobhan Salter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclosure - This book was gifted to me as part of a book tour with Insta Book Tours

After suffering the most traumatic event a woman can endure at the hands of her ex-fiance Beaux, Emma tries to move forward with her life, and she plans to carry her secret to the grave, not wanting people to define her by what happened to her.

That is until Julian Cole moves in next door. Just when Emma thought she would never be able to love again, Julian makes his way into her heart with his kindness and understanding.

Emma starts to think it's time to deal with her past and move forward with her life, but Beaux is a powerful man, and he will do anything it takes to keep the truth from coming out.

Threatened into silence, Emma begins doing a deep dive into Beaux's past, and she soon realises this is far bigger than her and Beaux, and one way or another she needs to get her story out there, not just for her, but for the women who came before her and the women who will inevitably come after her.

What. A. Book.

For the first half of the book I felt like I was reading the story of a woman who was overcoming her trauma and trying to move forward with her life, then about halfway through it takes a dark turn and I couldn't put it down. I needed to know what Emma had discovered, and how she was going to put Beaux for the monster he is.

This is not just a story about abuse and healing, but it is about redemption and forgiveness. About coming to terms with your trauma and learning to forgive others as well as yourself.

I have to admit that I felt torn at times, especially with one particular character. Their past crimes were horrific, and yet this story challenged my thinking, especially towards people changing and redeeming themselves. I still don't know where I sit on this. After all I'm not sure I could forgive such abuse inflicted on me, but I love that this book made me question myself.

Although a hard read, especially as a woman, I really enjoyed this thriller. It was fast paced, well written and tackled issues that I fortunately are still far too prevalent in today's society.

[kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book it was well written with a dark and almost gothic storyline and well developed characters that were relatable and believable.

The book was dark, fast paced and tense with a creepy atmosphere woven through it. I couldnt put it down, and read it in almost one sitting.

I will be recommending this book to everyone who loves thrillers.

[CosyReads · Rating 2 out of 5]

This review is going to be a case of the book not being what I was hoping for, therefore my expectations weren't met, so now I'm bummed and disappointed. I'm also having a bit of a moral dilemma. So, it's a me thing.

If you are looking for a heavy, soul crushing fictional depiction of surviving domestic abuse that feels like real life - this book probably isn't for you. However, if you are looking for a story that is much more likely to only happen in the movies & is mainly for 'entertainment' purposes - this book could definitely be for you. I personally wish I had known this going in, as I probably could have enjoyed it a lot better.

From the synopsis, I was hoping this was going to be a very hard-hitting, emotional struggle of finding a way to heal and move on. I thought it was going to be a survivor's tale, with self-loathing, depression and fear, seeing your abuser everywhere you turn. But also one of redemption and empowerment, finding the strength within and that moment of being able to look in the mirror and say, "You didn't break me." Unfortunately it wasn't.

I'm struggling to express myself as it does have some of those elements, but I just didn't feel it. The first couple of chapters showed real promise, it was dark and unafraid to be raw. It felt like something that could and does happen, it felt close to home, like it could be you, or your sister or your best friend.

But by the end, it had devolved into something that no longer felt real. There was something off about the overall tone throughout the book. It felt like things were done for shock value, which made it unrealistic and hard for me to form an emotional connection - precisely what I was looking for.

There was a lot happening in this book, so it might also be a case of trying to do too much, instead of focusing on the heart. The idea is great but the pacing and execution and where the story ultimately led.. just wasn't for me.

I'm torn & don't really know what to feel. If you want to be entertained, this book will entertain you for sure. If we're taking this based on that then great. But considering the event that started this story, I'm sorry but I'm struggling to figure out if describing it as 'entertaining', is okay .

Thank you so much to NetGalley, the author, Pelican Press & IBPA for granting me a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this incredible novel and I'm speechless. This one is not for the fainthearted. It is a book that tells a brutal tale with feeling. Most of the time I couldn't look away. The struggle the protagonist goes through would break many people but she keeps fighting. She wont give up.
Emma is done with her cheating fiance Beaux so she decides to end their engagement. The night she does becomes a night she wont be able to forget. The brutal ending makes Emma weary of anyone. Since Beaux has such a good standing in their community, she feels she must keep quiet and move on. That soon proves to be very difficult. Beaux is everywhere and he wont let go.
The author does an incredible job of making Emma's story come to life for the reader. I was turning pages faster than I usually do and I couldn't let go after I finished. I promise you, this novel will stay with you long after you finish.

[Alexa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was far more than I imagined it would be. I loved the strength that the main character Emma showed, in the face of an abusive and controlling fiance. But it was the intrigue of this book, the unexpected thrilling ride that the characters took, that I really enjoyed. It's a fast-paced book, with great characters, and a really hot Julien! Great book by this debut author!

[Aly Manno · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story had me at page 1. I read it in about three sittings. I'd categorize it as a suspense romance thriller with a commentary on sexual abuse victims. Incredibly thought-provoking, with characters you root for from the start!

[Kasi · Rating 5 out of 5]

That escalated quickly!

I enjoyed the plot development of this book. Emma was an strong protagonist, and I appreciated her journey. I look forward to the sequel!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in a matter of several hours. This book is very character driven and therefore, it is important that the characters in the story are engaging, and readers can connect to them. Thus, it really helped when as a reader, I became very connected emotionally to Emma and Julian. They both were broken but with each other, they slowly are finding their way to take their lives back and to trust again.

Why the topics in this book are tough to discuss and could be triggers for some readers, they are very important topics. It was really good to see Emma stand up and face these issues. She remained strong even when it was hard. I do look forward to reading the second book to this duet to see how it all ends.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started The Truth about Unspeakable Things I wasn’t too sure what to expect, it’s a romantic thriller and I was interested to see how the story would progress. This book contains alot of difficult topics so I’d recommend checking out the trigger warnings before reading. I read it in the day so it’s definitely a page turner and I really like the main character Emma, she is such a strong woman.

I won’t say too much about the plot itself as i don’t I want give anything away, it’s definitely a dark read and took a turn I didn’t see coming. There was some aspects of the The Truth about Unspeakable Things I couldn’t wrap my head around but it didn’t take away from the book itself.

I know there’s a sequel and that it’s on Kindle Unlimited so I want to pick that up and give it a read soon.

[Dj Acrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring and Incredible Story!

What a moving and uplifting story about being a survivor of sexual assault and unspeakable things!
Words evade me to describe this book any further, it's not a genre I normally read but after winning it from a Goodreads Giveaway, I am really glad that I took the time on it.
I recommend any survivors or family members of a sexual assault or harassment give this book a read!
The characters feel real, the author did a fantastic job drawing me into the story.

[Courtney Lewis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book contains some dark themes of abuse and assault so do research before diving in.
A book showing a person’s healing journey and about coming to terms and getting her justice back. It was a little bit of a slow burner at the start, but I’m so glad I stuck with it as it just erupted halfway and I couldn’t put the rest of it down! A great romantic thriller.

[Ashley Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a ride. At first I thought it was going to be a cute, emotional story of a woman getting through her trauma. It turned out to be so much more than that. The story was intense and told so so well! It honestly breaks my heart that this is not an unbelievable work of fiction, but that's exactly why it's an important story.
Thank you to Book Sirens for access to this free advanced copy.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravo! Well done!

This is one of the most compelling books I've read, dealing with a tough, emotional, soul wrenching subject. This author has done intense research, at least I believe so. The writing may trigger those who have survived sexual assault, for me it brings relief that there are people who get the pain, fear, intimidation of revealing their truth.

This is not an easy read. The abuse of children, women and men is not entertainment. This is the story of survival, of accepting responsibility for our own choices and actions in response to our trauma. This story has made a very significant statement of our personal response trauma...we can become the monster because the choice is within each of us.

I highly recommend this well written, story of one survivor's journey.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic. I loved the whole story. It was written with strength, sensitivity and poignancy.

Emma's story is that of many, and it is told well. The mystery behind how it all unfolds kept me riveted to the book.

[Lowspeedreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was fortunate to be a winner of this free copy gifted by the author, and I was excited to read what I believed to be a story about a woman's struggle to overcome the trauma dealt upon her by a man she used to love, all while moving forward with her life.

This book is that, kind of.

The author does a really good job of hitting on some very good points regarding the cycle of abuse, but my problem with this book is that it gets so bogged down by wilder and wilder plot points that sometimes those points get lost. More than once I actually said, out loud, "You've got to be kidding me". I just wish some more restraint had been shown, because a lot of this book is great, which is what made the weaker parts more apparent.

That said, this book is also a highly addictive thriller and readable. Myers is obviously a talented writer, and this being her debut I think any criticism I have of the book should be taken with that in mind. I enjoyed reading this, I just have conflicting feelings when it comes to the abuse depicted in this novel possibly being overshadowed by the other events that take place.

At the end of the day I think this book was mismarketed, I went in expecting something along the lines of My Dark Vanessa and got more of a Fifty Shades of Grey without the sexy time and much stronger writing.

I do recommend checking it out because I definitely think Myers is a writer to watch out for, and like I said this book is an addictive read, just sometimes I felt like I was having more fun reading it than I should given the subject matter.

[Judy Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!!!!
One of the best books I have ever read.
Next up is Bound By The Unspeakable.
I know it is going to be awesome too!
Thank you Emily for gifting me 2 of your books to read!!!

[enjoyingbooksagain · Rating 4 out of 5]

WOW what a story this is set in New Orleans and talk about twists and turns this book has that. It pulls you in from the start where we read about how Emma is trying to heal and move on from the unspeakable abuse she suffered. You will definitely have some emotional ups and downs while readings this story.
This is a romantic thriller you will be thinking about days after reading it. It does have triggers that you should look up before reading.

[Lexie Henson · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars- it was soooo good and myers took the book in a totally different direction than I thought it was gonna go.

[Sofe · Rating 5 out of 5]

EBook Review: THE TRUTH ABOUT UNSPEAKABLE THINGS by Emily A. Myers
(T) ime
(H) eals...
(E) xcept

(T) hat
(R) eality
(U) nderstated...
(T) o
(H) urt/

(A) ccept
(B) lame,
(O) ften
(U) nderutilized...
(T) he

(U) nderlying
(N) eed
(S) urpasses
(P) ride/
(E) go...
(A) lters
(K) nowing
(A) lternative...
(B) elieves
(L) ies
(E) xpressed...

(T) he
(H) arm
( I ) nternalized...
(N) ecessary
(G) arner
(S) urvival

THE TRUTH ABOUT UNSPEAKABLE THINGS.
Kept hidden by the victims.

Thinking best no one knows.
Feel at fault for happening.

Add to that intended threats.
Living every day with fear.

Must pretend everything is alright.
So other's lives not interrupted.

It's a catch 22 situation.
Perpetrator free to do again.

To someone else besides them.
"Victims" too stressed to consider.

This story travels many roads.
Takes us for a spin.

Swirling amongst all the negatives.
Revealing positives that lie within.

Had my attention for sure.
I know will for you!

****************************************************
I received free, via a free ebook promo
and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
****************************************************

[Katelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Truth About Unspeakable Things is a debut novel by Emily A Myers. It is a story about trauma, friendships, relationships, and second chances. Emma leaves her wealthy southern upbringing and goes to college in New Orleans. Emma ends her year long engagement to her fiance. However, that did not go as planned and she is left as a victim and survivor of sexual assault. Months after her assault, she is trying to adjust to life after the huge betrayal. A new neighbor moves in next door and Emma has an instant connection.

This book made me feel all the emotions. I was captivated from the beginning. There are a lot of heavy topics discussed in this book and it was written in a great way to address these tough topics.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Pub Date: April 6, 2021

[Melanie Frobisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The Truth About Unspeakable Things' follows the life of Emma Marshall after her (ex) fiance brutally attacked her. When she subsequently meets her new next door neighbour (Julien) and they fall in love, you assume you're heading towards a happy ending with a few interesting twists and turns along the way. In an understated way you are but the journey gets dark and dangerous as Emma sets out to expose her ex-fiance and finds abuse, corruption and more in doing so. She risk everything including Juliens' love.

The character development is excellent and you find yourself really rooting for Emma despite the fact that some of the situations she willingly puts herself in feel a little far-fetched. None-the-less as the protagonist, you can't help but feel empathy and as far as possible based on her experiences, understanding for her motives. The plot takes unexpected turns and this book is almost two in one - her story and the story she uncovers could easily be two separate tales.

I was a bit disconcerted by the overuse of 'Urm' in the dialogue. We all 'urm' but I found it distracting and unnecessary. Also, not being American, I did have to reference the names of some events to know what the author meant. The book tackles some difficult subjects, rape and abortion being two, so if you are sensitive to these subjects, this probably isn't for you. Otherwise if you enjoy a good thriller, you'll really enjoy this.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa Plasse · Rating 5 out of 5]

From The moment I began reading this book, I was drawn in and couldn't put it down. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to guess what will happen next. I could feel my heart pounding and the adrenaline rushing as I devoured this story. I absolutely will not reveal any of the storyline because it's that good. I want every reader who picks it up, to experience it for themselves. I am so looking forward to the sequel. It can't come soon enough!!

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is intense. Emma endures horrific abuse from her ex-fiance, which is slowly revealed throughout the course of the novel. If you're sensitive to sexual abuse, then this will not be the book for you. To me, what is almost as horrifying is the fact that Emma never reported it and holds this secret deep within her. She's suffering terribly from the after-effects, and has actually forgotten some of the details. As often happens, they do later bubble up, making it all worse. It's absolutely heartbreaking.

Thank goodness for her new neighbor, Julian. He has plenty of his own secrets and problems, but gets her on a level that no one else does. While there are moments where he is her knight in shining armor, more importantly, he inspires her to take charge of her life and take it back.

There's plenty of action and drama to keep you glued to the pages. I can see this one playing out on the screen, most likely in a miniseries format. It's jam-packed with emotion as well. And I think it has some lessons for readers and could provide some great conversations. Not everyone is going to be able to take matters in their own hands in the same way that Emma does, of course, but in general, she is inspiring.

I received a requested review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Caroline Bartlett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Like many other readers, this book what nowhere near what I was expecting from the blurb! I think I would classify it as romantic suspense, but with a strong commentary on the survival of sexual abuse. It's emotional, heartwrenching, and hopeful, and somehow very entertaining at the same time. I really loved the author's writing style and could easily picture the New Orleans setting.

Emma was a great protagonist: strong and resilient, and unwilling to let her ex get away with what he did to her. I couldn't wait to see Beaux get what he deserved.

The plot was fast-paced and enthralling. There were certainly some aspects added for shock value, but I enjoyed that Myers didn't pull any punches when it came to plot.

Myers is definitely a writer to watch after this fascinating debut.


https://www.howdidthatbookend.com/emi...

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Emma Marshall is a travel, culture, and music freelance writer for Conde Nast and The Hub, New Orleans. Emma's past shaped her to look into life away from her family, to carve out a career and later a partner.
Julian Cole is the co-owner of Cole Creatives, Director of A&R, the new Lucid Records owner, a musician, and now Emma's new neighbor. He moved into Emma's neighborhood, away from Los Angeles, to start fresh. A rare opportunity in New Orlean gave him the push to venture outside of his comfort zone to focus on what is important - the music.

Coming into The Truth About Unspeakable Things, I had to prepare my emotions because of the trigger warnings. I was surprised that even with them, I was still very open in starting this book because the theme and the strong protagonist emerges.

What I like:-
1.) Captivating writing that will grab readers.

The writing is first-person, POV from Emma's side. This technique brings about much mystery and suspense. It brings about a better appreciation and puts readers in a clearer and emotional position like Emma. The method is honest and graphic; in that the traumatic scenes will tear readers up. Everything in the book - the good, the bad, and the ugly side of human nature - I get it. The author wants to show the violence that Emma experienced while juxtaposing it with later the "vengeance" through character growth, maturity, and strength-building.

2.) Complex protagonist and storyline!
**I will tell you right now - it is not just a redemption story but healing with justice one. Expect the unexpected.

Initially, my impression of Emma and her situation would be that the author would skim through her trauma, keep writing articles, and something else would happen, which is the usual formula for a redemption book. BUT BUT BUT I would not have realized how "deep" things were until she started deep-diving into fixing herself.
Emma's perception of her "issues" s character is a complex one with a past like her's - it would damage anyone, even before the trauma she endured. The author wrote Emma's character development imperfectly perfect. Emma is a broken and defeated woman. Readers will feel the same debilitating fear and paranoia as Emma as the evil in her life seems to have all the chess pieces to his advantage from the start.
As the story developed, Emma discovered that she no longer can keep silent, and the problem she faced was beyond ex-fiancé Beau and proved to be an even more massive feat that touches on other lives - villains and survivors. She had to decide on the length of her commitment to speak for the "fallen" and "beaten" survivors and provide justice and "closure" for the villains. Emma bounced back and forth her idea of action and reaction effect in the book.
Emma does find her "justice" and heals to find closure from her trauma. I was more worried about the aftermath of such "closure" since it came at the cost of lives and normalcy.

Bottom line: What Emma did do brought more respect than I could ever imagine. Emma morphed into a triumphant phoenix, coming up from all devastation that happened. She found courage and empowerment at a time when these secrets and "back-door dealings" were never spoken or discussed. She chose the "harder path" to represent the weak and, at the same time, maybe help the villains find their redemption. It is a pity that some of these villains chose to ignore their chance when so many others did just that - admit, forgive and change.

3.) Culture and Music Scene
I love how the author dives into the history of New Orlean's music scene through Julian and Emma's discussions about Lucid and some of the music scenes in their parts of the world - Los Angeles and New Orleans. The author also dived into art since Emma's a writer of art and culture in the area. It is reminiscent of how art historians describe and analyze artworks. (This is coming from an art historian's background.)

4.) Supporting (and expected) characters
Emma's best friend, Kat, is golden! She helped Emma during traumatic times and into the possibility of having a relationship again. She is patient and wise who helped Emma in many ways that made the story an unforgettable one.
Julian's part is also essential. Although many of the big scenes by 3/4th of the story are more on Emma's doing, he made Emma realize how much "more" she is after what she went through. He may not be privy to all of Emma's life, but his presence in Emma's key moments changed her big time.
Not giving away too much - many more characters came into play even more - just when Emma thought she was alone in her endeavors. These incredible and selfless supporting casts of characters helped Emma find her purpose and drive in shining a light on the injustices happening around her.

In summary, The Truth About Unspeakable Things is an excellent read to readers who love characters that mature, grow, and become stronger after tragedies. It has all the elements of all great second-chance, redemption, and suspense novels. It is pretty heavy for and might not be for everyone, but it is a critical book to remind us and society that truths need to come out for peace and healing to happen.

PS: It is noteworthy to mention that this book is the author's debut book offering. With works like this, I cannot wait to see what else is in store for readers in the coming months from this promising author!
Believe me - this book is worth every word!