Synopsis:
When Emma and Eddie’s wedding preparations kick into high gear in Forkbridge, Florida, Astra Arden, Emma’s best friend and witch extraordinaire, is eager to play her part. But a deadly accident at the rehearsal dinner throws a wrench in the festivities.

As Emma’s big day approaches, Astra is caught in a whirlwind of wedding shenanigans—which she isn’t exactly thrilled about. But when an intoxicated guest dies chokes to death at the rehearsal dinner, Astra’s excitement quickly turns to suspicion.

Increasingly mistrustful of the guests and their dubious motives, annoyed that best man Lothian is there every time she turns around, and frustrated that Archie—Astra’s mischievous familiar owl—keeps helping himself to the catered snacks instead of helping her solve the case, can Astra uncover the truth behind this mysterious mishap and save the wedding from disaster?

Review:
This book was awesome. We see our usual stubborn Astra as she attempts to avoid anything to do with her feelings and anything beyond a task. While I was so enthralled with this book, it was truly because we see a completely different side of Lothian. He is always there for Astra, willing to help and trying to be the partner she needs and while it takes her a while to realize it, she has openly asked his opinions and kept him in the loop. Archie does not eat catered snacks and I was a bit disappointed in how little he appeared in this particular novel. I did like all the poolside and outdoor situations we got to see between Astra, Lothian and Emma’s guests. It is also nice to see less of Jason, given the circumstances. I greatly look forward to seeing what happens in book 14!

There were a few bits of wisdom in this book I especially liked, particularly that “Money does strange things to people.” (Page 25, Chapter 2), “But when adversity arises, and confidence runs thin, just remember: you are Astra. Impossibilities and adversity cower in your wake.”(Page 216, Chapter 13) as well as “Sometimes the hardest hearts to reach are the ones most in need of love… And sometimes love means not giving up, even when faced with anger and rejection–or even just simple attitude.” (Page 314, Chapter 19) There was also some quoted Shakespeare; and who doesn’t love that?!

While when I began this series I believed it was completed at 15 books, I have recently learned that apparently the 15th book isn’t out until February… and I’m not so sure it’ll be the last. That being said, I still love the series, am going to start book 14 once I’m done with this review, and highly recommend it to people who love Greek Mythology and cozy modern fantasy mysteries.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯