I loved Catherine Mack's first Eleanor Dash story and couldn't put this one down!! Love all the characters, especially Eleanor. This time she's invited to her best friend's wedding on Catalina Island, where a hurricane in barrelling down towards them and bodies are piling up! I love Mack's writing, the plot of this storyline and of course, the footnotes! Perfect beach read. Highly recommend this series.

Cozy beach read - perfect for vacation!

Eleanor Dash is the best selling author of a mystery series. After the events of the previous book about three months prior, she’s ready for a break. So when her childhood best friend Emma invites her to her wedding, she’s in, despite the impending hurricane.

Emma is a A list star, wrapping up filming the movie adaption of one of Eleanor’s books. Her co-star (and longtime crush) is also her fiancé. There’s a bit of subterfuge as they try to get to Catalina Island, the site of the wedding, to avoid the paparazzi. But even before they leave for the island, there’s tension: Emma shows Eleanor a note she’s received, warning there will be a death at the wedding. It’s initially dismissed as a bad joke, but before the actual wedding day there’s some suspicious ‘accidents’ - an electrified hot tub, a rope bridge that falls - which makes it hard to dismiss the note as a prank. Eleanor’s on the case of course, even before she starts finding bodies.

While I enjoyed this book, it did take me a bit to get used to Eleanor’s voice. She’s very chatty. Very chatty. A few times I wanted to mute her to get to the story. But once I got into the book, it was fun with lots of possible motives and possible victims. And like the previous book, this one ends with a set up for the next book.

Recommended. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.com that I voluntarily reviewed.

Eleanor Dash is back! If you read Every Time I Go On Vacation Someone Dies, you'll love this! A fun mystery novel with some clever humour where nothing goes according to plan. Think of the Finlay Donovan series, where the main character is somehow always mixed up in the chaos. It's funny, smart and wildly entertaining from start to finish!

This is the second in a series and we get some hints that another book will be coming! This one takes place on Catalina Island, where Eleanor's best friend Emma is marrying Fred - both of them star in the movie adaptation of Eleanor's book. Nobody should die at a wedding, but of course, someone does. As a mystery writer, Eleanor once again puts herself on the case and tries her best to stay alive. There are a few clever twists, lots of shady suspects and tons of shenanigans. Throw in a big tropical storm to further complicate the situation and you've got a very enjoyable read!

It would be helpful to read the first book in the series to get to know the returning characters. However, I do feel like you could read it as a standalone as well. I really loved this book and can't wait for more! Thanks to the author and publisher for my beautiful finished copy.

Catherine Mack’s "No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding" is a delightful addition to the Eleanor Dash/Vacation Mysteries series and a worthy follow-up to its predecessor, "Everytime I Go On Vacation, Someone Dies". In this second installment, we dive back into the world of mystery writer Eleanor Dash as her novel When in Rome is adapted into a movie—a clever narrative choice that intertwines elements of filmmaking with a captivating whodunit.

Mack seamlessly builds upon the foundation laid in "Vacation," providing a sense of continuity while introducing new layers to familiar characters. The story delights in its exploration of romance and relationships. Eleanor and Oliver are together, but their relationship faces challenges that add depth to their character development. It's fascinating to see the dynamics shift, reminding us that even in cozy mysteries, love can be complicated.

Set against the backdrop of a tropical storm that isolates everyone on an evacuated island, the setting creates a classic locked-room mystery vibe. Mack expertly balances the complexities of the plot, presenting multiple mysteries within the main storyline. As Eleanor bumbles through her investigation without the skill or charm of her literary heroine, Cecilia, readers are treated to plenty of "ah-ha" moments that are cleverly laced with misdirection and red herrings.

The narrative is light-hearted and engaging, enhanced by Mack's casual, audience-addressing tone. The addition of quirky footnotes throughout the text adds an amusing touch, although they are easily skippable for those who prefer to follow the main storyline without distraction. It’s this blend of humor and mystery that keeps the pages turning.

However, while the intricate layers of storytelling are enjoyable, some readers may find the plot a bit convoluted at times, especially those unfamiliar with the first book. It might take a moment to settle into the rhythm of the multiple threads woven throughout the narrative.

Overall, "No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding is a fun and cozy mystery that combines humor, romance, and intrigue—all while setting the stage for future adventures. The ending provides a tantalizing segue for another installment in the series, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what Ms. Mack has in store next. A must-read for fans of cozy mysteries!

No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding is the sequel to Catherine Mack’s comedic mystery, Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies. The stories must be read in order to understand the characters and storyline. It’s narrated by mystery author Eleanor Dash while she participates in the filming of her bestselling book and attends her best friend’s wedding on Catalina Island.

35-year-old bestselling author Eleanor Dash is headed to her longtime best friend’s wedding with her younger sister and personal assistant, Harper. Ten years earlier Eleanor met a con man in Rome who she became romantically involved with. When she returned home, she wrote a book about their adventures, When in Rome, and became an overnight success. Readers loved the mysterious private investigator, Connor Smith, so Eleanor wrote the Vacation Mystery series featuring him. Unfortunately, the real Connor Smith demanded a percentage of the book proceeds, so she was trying to kill off his character without alienating her fans.

Now When in Rome is being made into a movie starring Eleanor’s longtime best friend, Emma Wood. Emma fell in love with her co-star, Fred Winters, a Hollywood star who is playing the role of Connor Smith. As filming wraps up, Emma and Fred invite the entire cast and crew to their wedding at nearby Catalina Island. Although there’s a tropical storm headed their way, Emma and Fred are determined to have their wedding there. Then Emma receives a note that says, “Someone is going to die at the wedding.” Eleanor feels compelled to uncover the murderer so Emma’s wedding can go off without a hitch.

In Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies, Eleanor was reunited with her ex-boyfriend, Oliver Forrest, an author of literary mysteries. Their romance is secondary to the action-filled plotline. This story is primarily a mystery, with a dash of romance. While there are no graphic sex scenes, the story does contain profanity.

No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding is a funny mystery with some romance. Eleanor’s character reveals the realities of being a successful writer with a lot of humor. The plot was interesting and moved at a good pace, but I had trouble keeping all of the characters straight. The footnotes at the end of each chapter added to the humor and made me feel more engaged with Eleanor. No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding would make an excellent movie that appeals to a wide audience; I believe seeing the characters would make it easier to keep them straight.

I received an advance review copy (ARC) from NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Eleanor Dash once again finds herself embroiled in another murder mystery, this time at her friend Emma Wood’s wedding on Catalina Island. When a note proclaims someone will die at the wedding and a dead body is discovered Eleanor is determined to figure out what’s going on in order to save Emma’s wedding. But can she solve the murder before the hurricane lands on the island?

With humorous commentary, entertaining characters and a beautiful setting this cozy murder mystery has it all!

Thanks to Minotaur Books for an advanced copy of No One Was Supposed to Die at this Wedding by Catherine Mack. This is book two in the Vacation Mysteries series and these are a funny mystery series that I've enjoyed.

Eleanor is ready for her best friend's wedding on Catalina Island but when the bride receives a note that says "someone is going to die at the wedding," Eleanor goes into mystery investigator mode before it's too late.. While this was fun to listen to, I did enjoy the first book in the series more. These are a funny, cozy series that if you want a more fun mystery to check out.

Eleanor Dash is attending her best friends wedding but filming for her book When in Rome is wrapping up. Her best friend and the groom to be star in the film and the couple has invited everyone to their wedding. The wedding is being held on a nearby island and it looks like a storm is headed that way but they aren't going to let that stop them. Then Emma, the best friend, receives a note saying that someone is going to die at the wedding. Eleanor not wanting her friends day to be ruined decides to investigate she has gotten good at it. Will Eleanor be able to figure out who sent the note and keep someone from dying or will the wedding be ruined?

This is a fun, fast-paced mystery with just the right mix of suspense and humor. Eleanor Dash goes to her best friend’s wedding hoping for a break…but instead, someone ends up dead and she’s pulled into solving the case.

The setting is dramatic, the characters are entertaining, and the mystery keeps you guessing. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, which makes it a super enjoyable read.

For anyone who likes a lighthearted twist on murder this book is a must. I must admit I am a bit obsessed with this series because it entertains and makes me smile! A perfect blend and it hits all the right feels!!!

Eleanor Dash is at it again in this second book in The Vacation Mysteries series by Catherine Mack. While on vacation on Catalina Island for her best friend’s wedding she suddenly goes from wedding guest to murder investigator when everyone is a suspect.

This is a fun locked room cozy mystery that doesn’t take itself too seriously and draws you right in, literally, since the authors breaks the fourth wall and invites you to help solve the case. I enjoyed the quick pace and witty and sometimes snarky dialog. While there are a lot of characters, and each has their own motives and opportunities, Mack has written this in a way that lays it all out for you, but still keeps you guessing. This is a very unique writing style and makes for a very easy read that doesn’t require a lot of brain power. This is an enjoyable cozy mystery that is perfect for a vacation or beach read.

Catherine Mack has penned an engaging sequel to ‘Every Time I Go On Vacation Someone Dies’! The story is told by the main character, Eleanor Dash, who speaks directly to the reader. The characters are quirky and somewhat self involved, which adds to the drama of trying to figure out who’s a murderer. I did still find the use of footnotes rather distracting, but a bit less so since I knew they’d be a part of the storytelling after having read the first book in the series. The story itself was filled with drama, chaos, humor, red herrings and plenty of suspects. This was an entertaining addition to this quirky ‘cozy-ish’ series!

Another cute cozy mystery. We find ourselves again in Eleanor Dash’s world. Eleanor is a best selling author and she solves a little mystery on the side. If you liked the first book in this series you will like this one. It was witty, funny and kept me on my toes

This second book in the series was fun but I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first one . In the first book the approach of the first person somewhat neurotic narrator was a refreshing change; in the second book, it started to get on my nerves a bit . The locked room mystery on an island in a storm does seem to be a fairly common setting lately as well . So although the story was ok, i can’t say that this was a fav for me .

No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding by Catherine Mack is book two in The Vacation Mysteries.
I loved book one Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies so I was super excited to start book two.
This is a hilarious and heartwarming mystery series.
Mack's writing is witty and engaging, keeping readers hooked from the very beginning. The characters are well-developed and likable, and the setting is such fun and interesting.
The mystery itself is cleverly constructed, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers guessing.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book in which familiar mystery tropes and cliches are gleefully put together in a satisfying mystery. Movie stars, an island wedding, an incoming storm, and multiple pairs of exes provide plenty of distractions and twists. Eleanor’s conversational tone and footnotes make for a unique and engaging voice. This is the second outing for Eleanor and her friends but easily stands alone. Sure to be in high demand based on the first book, this won’t disappoint. Highly recommended.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

No One Was Supposed to Die at this Wedding is the sequel to Every Time I go on Vacation Someone Dies. It follows the main character Eleanor as she goes to the wedding of her best friend after her book has been adapted into a movie.
I liked this sequel because it had a lot of twists and turns and the footnotes are still funny. I loved how some of the characters from the first book came back and you got to see more of them. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves funny mysteries.

4 stars – Murder, mayhem, and matrimony!

No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding is a fun and fast-paced follow-up that brings Eleanor Dash back into the spotlight—whether she wants it or not. As a bestselling mystery author turned reluctant sleuth, Eleanor once again breaks the fourth wall with wit and charm, inviting readers to solve the crime right alongside her.

Though this is the second book in the series, it does a great job revisiting the events of the first, so you’re never lost—just intrigued. The writing is snappy and self-aware, making it an easy, engaging read from start to finish. Eleanor’s dry humor and constant commentary keep things light even as the mystery unfolds, and the ensemble cast—especially her best friend Emma and the ever-likable Oliver—adds heart and chaos in equal measure.

The wedding-on-Catalina-Island setup was delightfully dramatic (storms, secrets, suspicious guests… check, check, check!), and I enjoyed how the story leaned into the cozy mystery vibes without feeling overly saccharine. I don’t always read cozies, but this series reminds me why they’re such a good time when done well.

A great reinvestment in the Vacation Mysteries world—with just enough danger, drama, and dashes of humor to keep things moving. I’ll definitely be on board for Eleanor’s next chaotic getaway.

Big thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the eARC! And a very happy (slightly belated) Publication Week to Catherine Mack—I hope readers are loving Eleanor as much as I am!

No One Was Supposed to Die (whoops, autocorrect tried to change it to Diet, LOL) at This Wedding is a fun twisty follow-up to Every Time I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies. You definitely have to read the books in order as there are a lot of references to the first story in the second. This is a book you really have to pay attention to in order to not get lost. There are a lot of characters to keep track of as most have 2 names that are both referred to (their real one and the character they play in the movie of When in Rome, the MC's first book that is wrapping film production). I know there are mixed feelings about the footnotes, but I think they add something special. It is a book written from a mystery author's perspective written as if the MC is writing the book about her experience. You know those times when you were wondering what an author was thinking as she was penning her story? Those are what the footnotes are for... except they aren't the notes of the actual author but of the author in the book, so it's a little convoluted. Anyway, I am looking forward to the third installment and am happy this got optioned for a TV series as it would bring something really unique to current TV offerings that also feels comforting (think like a Murder She Wrote for modern times).

Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

Eleanor Dash and her sister and assistant, Harper, are on the location shoot of the film version of her novel "When In Rome". It is also that weekend that her best friend Emma Woods (who is staring in the film) is getting married to her co-star, Fred Winter, on Catalina Island. The entire staff, actors as well as Eleanor's boyfriend, Oliver, and her nemesis, Conner, will be there. Eleanor finds out that Emma's been receiving warnings that a murder will take place at the wedding. But, as all the guests are having fun activities planned, there is a hurricane approaching and no way off the island , when accidents and a murder, occurs. Eleanor is determined to find out what is going on before something happens to her friends.
A funny cozy mystery, the second in the series, with Eleanor speaking directly to the reader, with asides and footnotes, to help us solve the case along with her.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this e-galley of " No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding ".

Okay this book has me cackling the whole way through. I mean I know it’s murder and solving the crime and all but the cast is truly a delight.

And then add in the theatrics that comes with having (or losing) too much money.

Um and I just really love Oliver. Would love a scene or two from his perspective just to get a glimpse in to his mind about how he views these people and of course Eleanor.

One thing is for sure I will be back visiting Eleanor to find out about the bullet in the head very soon.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review.