Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite

Robert E. Kearns's Thou Shalt Not Covet is an engaging story combining romance, crime, and a touch of psychological suspense. Reginald "Reggie" Power is a middle-aged accountant from Waterford, Ireland. Reggie is a bit shy and introverted, dealing with arthritis and feeling comfortable in his bachelor lifestyle. To shake off the winter blues, he decides to join a local chess club at the Timber Ford Tavern, where things take an interesting turn. At the chess club, he meets Delilah Phelan, a captivating and beautiful woman who catches his attention. Even though she’s married, Reggie finds himself drawn to her and enjoys their conversations more than he expected. As their friendship grows, Delilah opens up about her troubled marriage, leading to a complicated relationship. With Reggie’s feelings deepening, Delilah skillfully pulls him into her web of deceit, taking the story down a darker path. The story leaves readers questioning motives and the consequences of unchecked desires, while also delivering a thrilling blend of suspense and drama.

I appreciated Thou Shalt Not Covet's insightful look into the intricacies of human emotion. The plot unfolds gradually, building suspense and exploring the psychological depth of its characters. The focus is more on the psychological aspects of the characters and the unraveling of their motivations rather than fast-paced action. This creates a sense of unease and anticipation that kept me hooked. Reggie’s vulnerability and Delilah’s cunning created a dynamic that kept me engaged. Thou Shalt Not Covet's exploration of love, manipulation, and betrayal makes it both relatable and strangely unnerving. I loved how the narrative challenged me to uncover the truth, especially with an ending that left me thinking. For those who like intricate relationship stories with a noir feel, this is a great choice. And remember, never ignore those red flags when things start getting serious.