Book Review: No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding by Catherine Mack
As I opened the pages of No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding, I felt an electric thrill of anticipation, knowing I was diving back into the cozy chaos of Catherine Mack’s delightful world. Having followed her journey as an author for years, I was excited to see how she’d continue spinning the quirks and thrills of her characters in this second installment of her Vacation Series. With her signature blend of mystery and humor, Mack promises another engaging escape, and she certainly delivers.
Set against the backdrop of a glamorous but stormy wedding on Catalina Island, we find our favorite best-selling author, Eleanor Dash, caught up in yet another murder mystery—one that seems to shadow her everywhere she goes. The wedding of her best friend, Emma, to Hollywood heartthrob Fred Winters becomes the perfect canvas for this locked-room mystery, and as the storm rages outside, tensions rise and secrets unravel inside. It’s a brilliant setup that kept me eagerly flipping the pages, wondering whodunit and hoping it wouldn’t be someone I loved.
Eleanor is an eccentric delight; her sharp wit and unique perspective make her not just the protagonist but the heartbeat of the story. The tangled relationships she navigates—particularly her complicated dynamics with ex-boyfriend Connor and rekindled romance with Oliver—add depth to her character. Other characters, from screenwriters to directors, enrich the tapestry of the narrative, each adding layers to the unfolding mystery. While the cast of characters might initially seem overwhelming, Mack does a wonderful job of ensuring they feel familiar, thanks to their development in the first book, Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies.
Mack’s writing style shines through, with her trademark humor and insightful prose. The pacing is brisk, allowing the tension to build while giving readers just enough time to appreciate Eleanor’s clever observations. Her ability to weave in suspense with laugh-out-loud moments makes for a dual experience that’s hard to put down. One notable quote that resonated with me was Eleanor’s musings on friendship: “Love is messy, and sometimes it comes wrapped in chaos—and that’s okay.” This sentiment not only reflects the unpredictable nature of Eleanor’s relationships but also echoes the essence of life itself, filled with unexpected twists.
The ending was a delightful surprise, leaving me both satisfied and hungry for more. Mack cleverly hints at another installment, igniting my curiosity about what Eleanor will face next. I must emphasize that while reading the first book provides valuable context, it’s not a prerequisite—each story stands on its own, yet the threads of connectedness enrich the overall experience.
In conclusion, No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding is an escapade perfect for those who love cozy mysteries infused with humor and heart. Catherine Mack (or should I say Catherine McKenzie?) has crafted a story that invites readers to laugh, ponder, and reflect on the eccentricities of love and friendship. If you enjoy quirky characters and a good whodunit, this book will be your ticket to a satisfying weekend getaway—minus the plane ticket! Trust me, you won’t regret joining Eleanor on this wild ride.
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