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The Alvarez Family #2
A Wedding to Die For
A wedding without a groom leaves a lot to be desired. So when the wedding of Lee’s best friend is threatened by the arrest of the groom for murder, thirty-four-year old Lee Alvarez -- a combination of Sue Grafton’s Kinsey Millhone and Janet Evanovitch’s Stephanie Plum - heads south of the border in search of the real killer. Not only is this half Latina, half WASP, and 100% detective thrown into the well-organized world of plundered Mesoamerican relics, but she finds herself eating the best tasting tamales ever.
With the help of the rest of the Alvarez Family, Never-Had-A-Bad-Hair-Day blueblood mother, Lila Hamilton Alvarez, brother and computer genius, Richard; favorite uncle, “Tío” Mateo; and Tugger, her energetic orange and white cat, Lee stumbles across the man of her dreams. But is he too good to be true? Probably. She tries to follow her own sage advice, ‘when Cupid’s wings start flapping, take cover.’ Good luck to her.
A Wedding To Die For is the second novel in a series of humorous murder mysteries involving the Alvarez Family, owners of Silicon Valley’s successful Discretionary Inquiries.
With the help of the rest of the Alvarez Family, Never-Had-A-Bad-Hair-Day blueblood mother, Lila Hamilton Alvarez, brother and computer genius, Richard; favorite uncle, “Tío” Mateo; and Tugger, her energetic orange and white cat, Lee stumbles across the man of her dreams. But is he too good to be true? Probably. She tries to follow her own sage advice, ‘when Cupid’s wings start flapping, take cover.’ Good luck to her.
A Wedding To Die For is the second novel in a series of humorous murder mysteries involving the Alvarez Family, owners of Silicon Valley’s successful Discretionary Inquiries.
Paperback
First published January 3, 2011
283 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Heather Haven
30 books152 followersIn her varied career, Heather has written short stories, novels, comedy acts, television treatments, ad copy, commercials, and had two one-act plays well-received in Manhattan. Once she even ghostwrote a book on how to run an employment agency. She was unemployed at the time. Heather’s first paying job was writing a love story for Moments of Love, published by Bantam Books. But it was her stint at New York City’s No Soap Radio - where she wrote comedic ad copy – that helped develop her long-time love affair with comedy.
She is the acclaimed author of the award winning humorous California PI mystery series, The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries, which includes Murder is a Family Business, A Wedding to Die For, and Death Runs in the Family, available at Amazon.com and selected bookstores.
Her recent endeavor is the Persephone Cole Vintage Mystery Series, taking place in New York City, circa 1940. Ever wonder how Sam Spade or Phillip Marlow might act if they were a woman? Meet Persephone ‘Percy’ Cole. The first of the series includes The Dagger Before Me and the second, Iced Diamonds.
A stand-alone mystery noir, Death of a Clown, made its debut March 1st, published by The Wives of Bath Press.
She is the acclaimed author of the award winning humorous California PI mystery series, The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries, which includes Murder is a Family Business, A Wedding to Die For, and Death Runs in the Family, available at Amazon.com and selected bookstores.
Her recent endeavor is the Persephone Cole Vintage Mystery Series, taking place in New York City, circa 1940. Ever wonder how Sam Spade or Phillip Marlow might act if they were a woman? Meet Persephone ‘Percy’ Cole. The first of the series includes The Dagger Before Me and the second, Iced Diamonds.
A stand-alone mystery noir, Death of a Clown, made its debut March 1st, published by The Wives of Bath Press.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 26, 2019
Liana Alvarez, PI of the family company, and expert sleuth, had her job cut out for her this time. With Carlos arrested for murder and all the evidence pointing to him as the killer; Mira, Lee’s good friend and Carlos’ fiancé plus the upcoming wedding in only three weeks’ time, would it be possible to identify the real killer before the wedding had to be cancelled? Dividing her time between her hometown in the US and Mexico where the relics originated from, Lee found herself tangled with organized crime in a big way. And there was a ruthless killer out there…
A Wedding to Die For is the 2nd in The Alvarez Family Murder Mystery series by Heather Haven and I quite enjoyed it. Light, amusing and entertaining, there were plenty of twists to keep me turning the pages. Recommended.
A Wedding to Die For is the 2nd in The Alvarez Family Murder Mystery series by Heather Haven and I quite enjoyed it. Light, amusing and entertaining, there were plenty of twists to keep me turning the pages. Recommended.
September 8, 2022
So happy I discovered this series and author
This is the second installment in thd Alvarez Family Murder series and I loved every minute I spent with it. Well paced and never boring.
Going to download the next one right away.
This is the second installment in thd Alvarez Family Murder series and I loved every minute I spent with it. Well paced and never boring.
Going to download the next one right away.
April 2, 2020
Super Funny Book
This was a really good book. A murder mystery that was funny, serious and sweet at same time. Loved it. Exceeds my expectations. Really fleshed out characters.
This was a really good book. A murder mystery that was funny, serious and sweet at same time. Loved it. Exceeds my expectations. Really fleshed out characters.
May 30, 2020
A WEDDING TO DIE FOR:
A Fun Detective Cozy
(The Alvarez Family Murder
Mystery Series, Book 2)
HEATHER HAVEN
If you love mysteries as I do, this story hits all the items we enjoy in a good murder/detective story. WEDDING has a super sleuth, a family member locked up for killing a victim, and an impressive supporting cast.
Mira's betroth Carlos's hands are on the murder weapon, and their wedding planner, family member, Private Detective Liana Alvarez, investigates. With the family's company of characters, the case turns into a Mexican adventure leading to a bigger problem.
Liana, and mother, who is President of Discretionary Inquiries, fly across the border, and the mystery unravels on the property of Carlos' family. The game begins, and Liana returns to the USA to find the solution leading to a close encounter deadly ending.
Ms. Haven's writing is crisp, funny, and is an adventure the reader will enjoy in one or two sittings, preferably with a glass of wine or, in my case, two double Dewars on the rocks. I love a quick read, and you should, too, if you like a good mystery.
A Fun Detective Cozy
(The Alvarez Family Murder
Mystery Series, Book 2)
HEATHER HAVEN
If you love mysteries as I do, this story hits all the items we enjoy in a good murder/detective story. WEDDING has a super sleuth, a family member locked up for killing a victim, and an impressive supporting cast.
Mira's betroth Carlos's hands are on the murder weapon, and their wedding planner, family member, Private Detective Liana Alvarez, investigates. With the family's company of characters, the case turns into a Mexican adventure leading to a bigger problem.
Liana, and mother, who is President of Discretionary Inquiries, fly across the border, and the mystery unravels on the property of Carlos' family. The game begins, and Liana returns to the USA to find the solution leading to a close encounter deadly ending.
Ms. Haven's writing is crisp, funny, and is an adventure the reader will enjoy in one or two sittings, preferably with a glass of wine or, in my case, two double Dewars on the rocks. I love a quick read, and you should, too, if you like a good mystery.
March 27, 2020
Great read. Enjoyed the story line immensely.
The characters were impressive, except for the Ice Lady, Lila. How can a woman remain so remote from the world of emotion having given birth to two children. It's kind of like saying "I love you, but don't come near me, as my love for you must remain distant". She is a total pain in the butt, putting it nicely, which butt seems to have a stick up it. She is the only character in the book that I disliked intensely.
I love Lee, She is likable, intelligent and in her own way, comedic. I was happy to see Huckster come into her life. She deserves some personal happiness aside from working her tail off to insure everybody else's happiness and I think he is just the guy to do that.
But, in spite of having to put up with Lila, I look forward to reading more in this series and recommend it to mystery lovers.
The characters were impressive, except for the Ice Lady, Lila. How can a woman remain so remote from the world of emotion having given birth to two children. It's kind of like saying "I love you, but don't come near me, as my love for you must remain distant". She is a total pain in the butt, putting it nicely, which butt seems to have a stick up it. She is the only character in the book that I disliked intensely.
I love Lee, She is likable, intelligent and in her own way, comedic. I was happy to see Huckster come into her life. She deserves some personal happiness aside from working her tail off to insure everybody else's happiness and I think he is just the guy to do that.
But, in spite of having to put up with Lila, I look forward to reading more in this series and recommend it to mystery lovers.
April 17, 2020
2.75 stars
Liana "Lee" Alvarez makes mistakes but her heart is in the right place and yet somehow, she manages to figure things out. Her mother's tendency to rule the roost and make decisions for her children bothers me ... Lee needs to stop rolling over and let her mom know she is an adult. Although it's hard to be an adult when you still live at home (garage apartment). Am not sure I care for the way the author has written her romantic life or how often Lee gets hurt while in the midst of things. The author writes that Lee knows what she is doing and yet she continues to make rookie mistakes ... hard to have faith in someone who talks the talk but has a hard time walking the walk. The side characters and the cute cat help fill in where she's found lacking.
Liana "Lee" Alvarez makes mistakes but her heart is in the right place and yet somehow, she manages to figure things out. Her mother's tendency to rule the roost and make decisions for her children bothers me ... Lee needs to stop rolling over and let her mom know she is an adult. Although it's hard to be an adult when you still live at home (garage apartment). Am not sure I care for the way the author has written her romantic life or how often Lee gets hurt while in the midst of things. The author writes that Lee knows what she is doing and yet she continues to make rookie mistakes ... hard to have faith in someone who talks the talk but has a hard time walking the walk. The side characters and the cute cat help fill in where she's found lacking.
February 22, 2021
Love these books!
I am a sucker for a series with strong female characters. I happened to stumble across book three and was pleased to find that each book can be read as a standalone. Within a few pages, I knew I'd have to go back and read the rest. The characters are well-developed and the twists and turns are not predictable. Although it's a series with a core set of characters, new ones relevant to the plot are naturally introduced. The three books I've read are not formulaic, with new insights and dimensions added as the series moves from book to book. Very enjoyable and smartly written.
I am a sucker for a series with strong female characters. I happened to stumble across book three and was pleased to find that each book can be read as a standalone. Within a few pages, I knew I'd have to go back and read the rest. The characters are well-developed and the twists and turns are not predictable. Although it's a series with a core set of characters, new ones relevant to the plot are naturally introduced. The three books I've read are not formulaic, with new insights and dimensions added as the series moves from book to book. Very enjoyable and smartly written.
March 13, 2020
Having just read some reviews for this book I'm not sure we read the same book! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this the second in a wonderful series and can't agree. Lee is a feisty PI with a squishy center she doesn't share with many. Ms Haven has penned a tightly woven mystery so well crafted I found myself unable to put it down. I've fallen in love with the whole Alvarez family especially Tugger (and I'm more a dog person!). I am starting the next book now. Thanks Ms Haven for hours of reading pleasure.
April 19, 2020
Interesting charters involved in a mystery with most interesting subplots
I love these mysteries as the writing is so ex-licit I can picture the story as it evolves in my mind. I look forward to reading nightly, as the two Alvarez Family Mysteries I’ve read so far are excellent. A few times Liana went off risking life and limb, but was angry with herself later, and should of been, too. Love the characters, with interesting descriptions of sites involved. Stories are believable, fun and interesting!
I love these mysteries as the writing is so ex-licit I can picture the story as it evolves in my mind. I look forward to reading nightly, as the two Alvarez Family Mysteries I’ve read so far are excellent. A few times Liana went off risking life and limb, but was angry with herself later, and should of been, too. Love the characters, with interesting descriptions of sites involved. Stories are believable, fun and interesting!
December 26, 2022
I am enjoying this series. Liana is a good person that just wants to help out her friend so she can get married on time.
She ends up in bigger trouble then I think she expected to get into. She solves several mysteries and frees her friend's fiancée from jail all in one week.
The book is very well written and can be read as a stand alone book but is even more fun if you read them in order. The characters are fleshed out a bit more from the first book, added some more insight to what makes them all tick. I laughed at some points and cried at others.
She ends up in bigger trouble then I think she expected to get into. She solves several mysteries and frees her friend's fiancée from jail all in one week.
The book is very well written and can be read as a stand alone book but is even more fun if you read them in order. The characters are fleshed out a bit more from the first book, added some more insight to what makes them all tick. I laughed at some points and cried at others.
February 8, 2021
The heroine of the story is to help her best friend organize a wedding, She didn't expect to hear the groom is in prison for killing a man who entered their apartment to steal an object, considered precious. She, being an investigator, must try to find the guilty party. She goes to Mexico to do just that!
An interesting story with nice descriptions of Mexican towns.
An interesting story with nice descriptions of Mexican towns.
May 31, 2021
I Have Loved These Alvarez Family Books From the Beginning
The members of this family are very special. Richard supports his sister and both support their mother. Uncle Tio is a retired chef and does all the cooking. The patriarch died a couple of years ago, and his daughter is a good P.I. just like him.
The members of this family are very special. Richard supports his sister and both support their mother. Uncle Tio is a retired chef and does all the cooking. The patriarch died a couple of years ago, and his daughter is a good P.I. just like him.
July 14, 2021
This is another fun book in a what is quickly becoming a favorite series. Lee (aka Liana) is planning the wedding of her best friend when the groom is arrested for murder. Her investigation takes her to Mexico and brings in a handsome stranger. Lee's inner dialog is funny. I have the next book and its high on my TBR list.
April 11, 2025
Cosy murder mystery
A light and cute murder mystery. Characters going a bit more depth. What happened to the guy who helped rescue her in the last story, he was supposed to work for the company after a short jail sentence. What about the girl who was blackmailed trying to get her family into the US from China, the company was supposed to help.
A light and cute murder mystery. Characters going a bit more depth. What happened to the guy who helped rescue her in the last story, he was supposed to work for the company after a short jail sentence. What about the girl who was blackmailed trying to get her family into the US from China, the company was supposed to help.
February 14, 2021
Mexican art
This was a good story about finding the culprits in an international artring and murder. Lee is working to cases. She helped investigate a problem for a friend. Then her best friend's fiancee gets arrested for murder.
This was a good story about finding the culprits in an international artring and murder. Lee is working to cases. She helped investigate a problem for a friend. Then her best friend's fiancee gets arrested for murder.
May 25, 2021
International
I love this series. This is the second book I have read. I love it’s references to Palo Alto and that it incorporates international aspects to life. Yes, it is a cozy, but one with heart and spirit.
I love this series. This is the second book I have read. I love it’s references to Palo Alto and that it incorporates international aspects to life. Yes, it is a cozy, but one with heart and spirit.
July 10, 2021
Lee Alvarez’s best friend was getting married and the groom is arrested for murder. The character rambles too much about inconsequential things and it takes way too long to get anywhere. When does somebody die already!?
August 23, 2021
Had me from the first page!
This is the first book I have read in the Alvarez Family Mysteries series and I am hooked! Good plot, strong characters, well-written mystery combine to make a story that kept me reading happily for hours.
This is the first book I have read in the Alvarez Family Mysteries series and I am hooked! Good plot, strong characters, well-written mystery combine to make a story that kept me reading happily for hours.
December 16, 2021
Who committed the murder?
Good read. Lots drama about stolen ancient artifacts and family run private detective agency. Started by late father and run by mother. As with most of the Cosy Mysteries, no sex or violence except for dead bodies.
Good read. Lots drama about stolen ancient artifacts and family run private detective agency. Started by late father and run by mother. As with most of the Cosy Mysteries, no sex or violence except for dead bodies.
January 26, 2022
love love this series
It had been a while since I read the first one, but it came back quickly. The story goes from the US to Mexico tracking antiquities. Can’t wait for the next one!
It had been a while since I read the first one, but it came back quickly. The story goes from the US to Mexico tracking antiquities. Can’t wait for the next one!
July 14, 2023
Adventures cross borders
Not one but two mysteries to solve in this book. Heather keeps you on your toes for sure with such great stories. Lee the main character is funny and serious at the same time, but the things that she can get herself into is an adventure always.
Not one but two mysteries to solve in this book. Heather keeps you on your toes for sure with such great stories. Lee the main character is funny and serious at the same time, but the things that she can get herself into is an adventure always.
April 20, 2024
Terrific series. I love Lee and her quirky family. The Investigation company that they run seems very cool. There are lots of funny lines and scenes. The author does a great job in the storyline of the mystery.
June 21, 2024
Another good one!
I stumbled on this series of books and I am so glad I did! Well written story with many twists and turns and liberally sprinkled with lots of humor. Keeps you thinking and a good read that makes you want more.
I stumbled on this series of books and I am so glad I did! Well written story with many twists and turns and liberally sprinkled with lots of humor. Keeps you thinking and a good read that makes you want more.
May 4, 2020
Review to come!
July 26, 2020
I thought this was even better than the first one! A great cast of characters and a great mystery :-)
January 12, 2021
Good
good plot with great family interactions, good descriptions if a bit wordy at times. Good humour and clean fun reading.
good plot with great family interactions, good descriptions if a bit wordy at times. Good humour and clean fun reading.
January 16, 2021
Entertaining
This intriguing story involves wedding planning, murder, stolen artifacts creating a riveting mystery. It is another case to be unraveled for the Alvarez family.
This intriguing story involves wedding planning, murder, stolen artifacts creating a riveting mystery. It is another case to be unraveled for the Alvarez family.
February 18, 2022
A very enjoyable mystery. The characters are full & interesting. Story was unique & intriguing. It was believable. I loved the ending!
September 8, 2022
Very much worth the read
Thks is well written with characters that the reader wants to care about. I enjoyed it and look forward to the rest o
f theseries.
Thks is well written with characters that the reader wants to care about. I enjoyed it and look forward to the rest o
f theseries.
January 20, 2023
this was a good and fast reading. the end was not expected at all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews