BOOK REVIEW: Murder at the Wedding

MURDER AT THE WEDDING

by Anita Davison
Available October 26

It's Hannah Merrill's wedding day, and her family are determined to make it perfect. But they couldn't have planned for the vicar to go missing right before the ceremony, only to be found dead in the church crypt. What is initially believed to be a tragic accident turns out to be a poisoning. And as the authorities begin their investigation, so do Hannah and her aunt Violet.

The vicar's tragic death isn't the only surprise at the heart of this marriage. Secret weddings, an earlier death in the family, and a web of family and acquaintances — all with their own strong opinions about the recently deceased — color the investigation. As Hannah digs deeper, she also comes to terms with married life when the world is at war. Even with multiple suspects on the table, each with their own potential motives, the police believe they have their killer. But Hannah and Violet's investigation turns up something that will surprise even the vicar's closest family and friends.

Murder at the Wedding is the latest in a growing line of "Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet" mysteries, and several of their past escapades are referenced throughout the book. While this one feels like it might not be the best book to start on, as it's clear that Hannah's first "case" is one that still hangs over her, Davison wastes no time getting new readers on board with the regulars. Even if this is your gateway into the series, you will warm to these amateur sleuths right away. While it does suffer a bit from some last-minute monologuing, the mystery itself is satisfying when brought to its close.

TEA PAIRING: Picnic at Pemberley

This high-class green tea laced with notes of jasmine and rose is a perfect afternoon brew, and pairs nicely with the cozy, high-class vibes of this mystery. Use my code KARA15 to get 15% off this and more from Chapters Tea & Co.!