Eleanor Dash wrote a book. And that one book changed her life and the lives of those around her. Over and over.

She was just a teenager when her parents were killed in a car accident, and when she took over raising her younger sister. Eleanor put her dreams of college aside while Harper finished high school. And when Harper went off to college, Eleanor used some of her inheritance to go to Rome. In Rome, she met Connor, and they fell in love while investigating a string of robberies in town. That story didn’t end how she expected, but she turned it into a bestselling novel.

That novel is now being made into a movie, and her best friend Emma Wood is playing the part of the protagonist. The role of Connor is being played by Fred Winters. And like their characters in the movie, Emma and Fred have fallen in love. After they wrap shooting the film on Catalina Island, they’re planning a small wedding. Eleanor and Harper are invited, as are others from the movie. Eleanor brings her boyfriend Oliver, and Connor is invited as well.

Just as the whole gang is back together, getting ready for a Hollywood wedding, complete with a photographer from People magazine, there is a storm brewing. A couple of them, actually. There is the actual hurricane that weather reports say is heading their direction. And there is the storm of anxiety that comes when Emma hands Eleanor a note saying that someone was going to die at the wedding.

At first, they’re trying to figure out if there is an actual threat or not. But when Emma, Eleanor, and Harper were heading to a series of pools to relax and Harper’s phone dropped in the water, it was clear that had the women gotten in, they would have been electrocuted. The police can’t help, as most of them have already evacuated the island. But as the weekend continues, there are actual murders. Eleanor feels like the answers are there for her, if she just looks hard enough. But first, she’ll have to keep Emma, Harper, and herself alive until the storms have passed.

No One Was Supposed to Die at the Wedding is a crime adventure novel full of snark and well, frankly, backstabbing. Everyone at the wedding has secrets, and the pressure of the wedding is bringing it all out into the open. Revenge, infidelity, gambling, blackmail, and that is just the start. The way this story unfolds is a little bonkers but lots of fun, with the comic timing of one not-a-detective detective bringing laughs throughout.

I listened to the audio book of No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding, narrated so beautifully by Elizabeth Evans. She gave each character a distinct voice (and there are a lot of characters to keep track of), and even added some charming accents to keep this audio book rolling along. Eleanor is narrating the story herself, no third person writing here, and she loves to add snarky footnotes throughout the book. In the narration, those notes are added as they show up in the narrative, just with a little extra attitude, so they don’t slow down the listener at all, which I appreciated.

I enjoyed this book a lot, but I will admit that there is a lot going on and a lot to keep track of. There are a lot of characters, and author Catherine Mack does a good job of using context clues to keep readers on track with them, but there is still a certain amount of mental work to keep it all sorted. And when you get toward the ending, there are a lot of story loops that get a little bonkers to put together. Still, I had a lot of fun going on a trip with Eleanor and company again, and I look forward to the trip to Greece she talked about at the end, even though I know that it will not end well for everyone involved.

Egalleys for No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding were provided by Minotaur Books and an early copy of the audio book was provided by Macmillan Audio, both through NetGalley, with many thanks, but the opinions are mine.

I had a great time with the first book in the Vacation Mysteries series and could not wait to read this installment. I’m happy to say, this did not disappoint. I adore Eleanor’s character even though she keeps finding herself in ridiculous murder investigations. I also love how Mack takes readers to different locations and includes plenty of detail where it feels like the readers are on vacation too — in this instance Catalina Island. I enjoyed the glam of the Hollywood wedding backdrop while also getting to learn more about Eleanor’s background via her best friend’s wedding. Also, I really enjoy Mack’s fun writing style and how she regularly draws the readers in to participate in the investigation. Mack also keeps the books lighthearted by including over the top plot lines. I also enjoy how well thought out the mystery is. There are plenty of misdirections and once you think you finally have a handle on the culprit and reasoning, Mack throws another curveball. The narration for this book was top notch. Elizabeth Evans is the perfect choice for nailing Eleanor’s character while also drawing the reader’s interest. It really feels like you’re sitting down to coffee with Evans and she’s having a conversation with you all. I also felt that Evans did well incorporated the footnotes into the narration without it feeling like you were breaking up the story. Overall, I can’t wait for the next book in this series.

🔪💍 Book Review: No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding by Catherine Mack
(aka: The most fun you’ll ever have at a deadly destination wedding)

Catherine Mack has officially claimed her crown as the queen of twisty rom-com suspense with this pitch-perfect second novel! No One Was Supposed to Die at This Wedding is everything I hoped for and more—witty, wild, and utterly impossible to put down.

Packed with snappy dialogue, delightfully over-the-top wedding drama, and just the right dose of who-can-you-trust tension, this book reads like a murder mystery and a rom-com had a glamorous, slightly unhinged baby. The characters are chaotic in the best way, the pacing is razor-sharp, and every chapter leaves you grinning, gasping, or both.

Mack’s sophomore novel proves she’s not just a one-hit wonder—she’s a must-read author, full stop. I’m officially obsessed.

Let’s take a moment for this gorgeous cover please. 😍

Okay friends. To those who love a good whodunit, this is another bingeable one to add to your TBR!

This is pretty much a destination wedding gone wrong. I love wedding mysteries because they’re always chaotic and there’s so many characters which makes guessing the k1ller more challenging! And I actually was surprised that this book got twisty!!

The audiobook was also amazing especially for the kind of POV this book used. It’s pretty much a “breaking the fourth wall” kind of a book where the narrator is directly speaking to the reader. Plusss. The narrator is amazing! I pretty much listened to this while driving to Boston and it was so bingeable!

This just came out last Tuesday! Highly recommend if you want a whodunit read for the summer with wedding vibes!!

Thank you @minotaur_books for the free book! Thank you @macmillan.audio for the free audiobook!!!

Loved this second installment to this cozy mystery series! I loved the concept of this book and the plot was well done! I loved getting to know a bit more about some of the characters from the previous book as well as getting to see and connect with some new and old characters! Definitely recommend this series if you are looking for some quick and entertaining mysteries!

I love a good thriller or mystery. And when you throw in a comedic aspect, it is a double win for me. No One Was Supposed To Die At This Wedding was a highly anticipated sequel for me. I absolutely loved Every Time I Go On Vacation Someone Dies and this one has all the same dry wit and sarcastic running commentary combined with a good old fashioned murder mystery. All with the same characters. I cackled out loud so many times. I loved all the Taylor Swift one liners. And I just loved all the snark. And I had no clue who did it until the very end. All while I was giggling.

This is a very fun and cozy follow up to the first in the series. It was fun being with these characters again - and reading all the fabulous footnotes! The story was fun and, even though I guessed most of what the reveals showed us - it still was an entertaining little cozy mystery and I will continue to read on in the series - which the author clearly lets us know is continuing!

This series is like a less literary Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson - I prefer that series just because it's so darn clever and the writing is much more elevated but if you love that series, you will enjoy this one. They have a similar style with the 4th wall breaking narrator talking directly to the reader as clues are revealed and the reader really uncovering the mystery right along with the main character.

So if you are looking for just a fun, entertaining murder mystery series that doesn't make you think too much - this is a good one to pick up.

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 .