The Unwedding

This. Is. The. Perfect. Mystery/Thriller!

Smart and complex characters, interesting setting, a sense of foreboding, a new twist on an old story (wedding) with a thread of a second mystery woven throughout. I just enjoyed every page, every snappy conversation, thoughtful musing and active plot points.

In The Unwedding, Ellery Wainwright has traveled to Big Sur California to spend the week at an incredibly expensive and luxurious hotel that she had booked to celebrate her 20th wedding anniversary. Unfortunately, Ellery is traveling alone, and her husband is watching the children with the help of his new girlfriend. Ellery is dreading the time alone with her thoughts but is hoping to make the best of it. There's a large group at the resort for a glamourous wedding and Ellery meets the lovely bride. No one could guess that the next day a disaster would strike to ruin the wedding!

When a harrowing storm sets upon the area and ends any communication or transportation out, the group is stranded and stuck with only the mystery of what happened to the group. Ellery is haunted by her own flashbacks but begins her own investigation. Join Ellery at the resort - you won't be sorry!
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I loved this! I enjoyed the vibes and the setting. The murder mystery aspect was fun. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

In this captivating read, the author masterfully weaves a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through a blend of richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted plot, the book offers a unique exploration of its central themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the story's depth and complexity. The narrative is paced perfectly, balancing moments of intense action with thoughtful reflection, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last. The author's ability to evoke emotion and create a vivid, immersive world is truly remarkable, making this book a must-read for anyone looking for an exceptional literary experience.

Beyond its compelling storyline, the book stands out for its insightful commentary on the human condition, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of its narrative. The author's skillful use of language not only enriches the text but also elevates the reader's experience, offering new perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it's the intricate dynamics of relationships, the exploration of identity, or the confrontation with ethical dilemmas, this book tackles complex issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the nuances of life, making it a valuable addition to any book lover's collection. Regardless of genre, this is a work that resonates on multiple levels, affirming the enduring impact of well-crafted literature.

In 'The Unwedding,' Ally Condie delivers a captivating adult fiction debut that blends the allure of 'The White Lotus' with the intrigue of an Agatha Christie mystery. The story revolves around Ellery Wainwright, navigating the aftermath of her recent divorce as she embarks on what was supposed to be a celebratory vacation at the exclusive Resort at Broken Point in Big Sur.

The setting, described as one of the most stunning places on earth, becomes the backdrop for an unexpected turn of events when Ellery stumbles upon a dead body on the day of a scheduled wedding. The tension escalates as the guests find themselves trapped by a mudslide, and secrets unravel in the isolated resort.

Condie masterfully weaves a tale of uncertainty, suspense, and the complexities of human relationships. The characters, each harboring their own secrets and shadows, contribute to the overall sense of unease. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Broken Point holds more than just breathtaking views – it harbors dark mysteries that threaten everyone's future.

A must-read for those who enjoy a blend of atmospheric storytelling, mystery, and the exploration of hidden truths

I loved this book! Closed circle mysteries are one of my favorite tropes so The Unwedding was right up my alley. The characters were so well done. They were distinct and complex. I liked most of them, but I especially loved Ellery and Ravi. It was fun to read about their amateur sleuth investigation. The pace of this novel was just right. Slow enough that you get to know the characters, but not so slow that you are bored. The isolated resort setting was perfect, and the storm added a lot of atmosphere. All of the twists and turns kept me guessing until the surprising end. I have never read anything by Ally Condie before, but I will definitely be looking for more. Highly recommended!

Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC!

I enjoyed the concept of this book. Normally, I have some ideas of who the culprit might be, but The Unwedding kept me guessing all the way to the end.

The setting of the story was in a perfect location for a mystery, the characters were woven into the plot well, but the storyline seemed to drag on just a little too long for me.

Overall I would rate this book 3.75 ⭐️

Thank you, NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC.

The Unwedding is a twisting story of a woman rising from the ashes while fighting through unexpected tragedies, adding to her past full of them. I was hooked from the very beginning. Ellery doubts herself in such a way, it leads the reader to also doubt her, Keeping you on your toes. Is she unreliable? Is she actually telling you the truth? Does she see more than she lets on? Such a great book full of twists while following a wonderful storyline of growth, don’t skip this one!

The "Agatha Christie meets The White Lotus" publisher pitch makes total sense now! An absorbing take on the snowed-in trope and an assured adult debut from Condie.

Ellery Wainwright is at a crossroads. She was supposed to spend her twentieth wedding anniversary with her husband, Luke at the Resort at Broken Point at Big Sur, California, but three months ago he left her, and now he has a girlfriend and her kids are spending the weekend with them and the deposit was non-refundable and here she is. Alone.

And there’s a wedding going on at the Resort this weekend. And Ellery has just found the groom dead in the pool. And a massive storm and mudslide has cut them off from the police and everyone else.


So, it’s a trapped at the resort mystery and the first adult novel from the author of the “Matched” series. I actually quite enjoyed it, my only complaint being Ellery’s constant, “ my kids, my kids, I have to get back to my kids!” Her kids are not babies and they are with their dad who, though Ellery hates him with perfect reason, isn’t abusive or anything. I hate mothers like that.

I loved the use of the art through the book, and the way it was incorporated into the central mystery. Added a little something and much appreciated. Overall I thought the whole thing was well done and I would recommend it to fans of the genre.

A groom found dead in a pool, a groomsman found dead at the bottom of a cliff, a torrential rain storm and mudslide that totally closes off all access to the hotel. What else could go wrong and who can you trust? A perfect page- turner.

I adored Ally Condie's Matched series growing up, so I was excited to hear she was making her adult debut! The Unwedding is perfect as a thriller, and does atmospheric setting very well. Big Sur and a remote resort reveal all their mysteries as we follow our character from sudden divorce to solving a groom's murder. The plot twists kept me guessing and the book kept me hooked the entire time, I almost read it in one sitting (would have, but I needed to go to work).

Condie's storytelling prowess shines as she crafts a narrative full of twists and suspense. An enjoyable read that will keep you seated for the whole thing.

The Unwedding" by Ally Condie is set in the captivating yet foreboding landscape of Big Sur, where a seemingly ordinary gathering quickly turns into a gripping murder mystery with a modern twist, echoing elements of Agatha Christie and "The White Lotus."

The story centers on Ellery, recently divorced, who becomes entangled in a murder investigation during what was meant to be a celebratory weekend. While the pacing and some character developments may falter, Condie’s strong prose and atmospheric setting keep the reader engaged.

Despite some abrupt twists and a few unsatisfying conclusions, the novel offers a compelling mix of suspense and exploration of human resilience. "The Unwedding" is a promising adult fiction debut for Condie, appealing to those who enjoy a complex, twist-filled thriller.


Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for my advance reader copy all opinions are my own.

My first “adult” book by Allie Condie and she killed it! This is sort of a locked room type mystery. It was very intriguing and I couldn’t put it down.

Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the copy of The Unwedding by Ally Condie. If you’re looking for a thriller with a riveting plot combined with an emotional character story this is the book for you. The setting was vivid and made me wish it were a real resort I could visit. I loved how the characters were three-dimensional and complicated, especially Ellery, with her flashbacks and how she pined for the life she used to have with Luke distracted herself by trying to solve the murders. The writing drew me right into the story and kept me enthralled until everything was expertly tied up. Don’t miss this book. 5 enthusiastic stars!

The Unwedding by Ally Condie is a gripping thriller set in California’s Big Sur scenic area. It’s an idyllic setting until the rain sets in and the bodies start being discovered. Fortunately, a few of the guests take matters into their own hands and eventually solve the murders and the rain finally clears. I love a good mystery! Kudos to Ally on her first adult fiction novel!