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Annabelle Archer #5

Death on the Aisle

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** Agatha Award-winning Series** A society wedding on a client’s yacht could make Annabelle’s career . . . or get her killed. Wedding planner extraordinaire Annabelle Archer and her zany team are used to working under challenging conditions, but a shipboard wedding during a torrential downpour makes all their past weddings look like a piece of cake. When a dead body turns up floating in the Potomac River, Annabelle knows that all isn’t what it seems on board the luxurious yacht. As the body count begins rising faster than the water level, Annabelle must stop the killer before they strike again, or risk having her career go down with the ship. Death on the Aisle is the fifth book in the Annabelle Archer cozy mystery series. If you like charming characters, fast-paced comedy, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the wild world of weddings, then you’ll love Laura Durham’s Agatha award-winning series. Buy Death on the Aisle to discover the award-winning mystery series today! Interview with the Author Q - So, what makes the Annabelle Archer series special? A - The Annabelle Archer wedding planner mysteries are based on my 20 plus years of planning society weddings in Washington, DC. That means I’ve seen tons of crazy things happen, and I’ve worked with lots of colorful characters. I bring that light-hearted sense of fun and zany characters into the novels. A lot of the humorous details I include in my books actually happened at my weddings! And since the books are about weddings, there is plenty of food, décor, and behind the scenes details. The Annabelle Archer books are fast-paced cozy mysteries featuring a female protagonist with a little romance and comedy thrown in. You'll find the series has elements of culinary and craft mysteries, with a jewelry heist caper and ghost story in the mix to keep things interesting. Q - What order should I read the books in? A – You won’t be lost if you read the books in this cozy mystery series out of order but if you do want to read them in order, I'd suggest the following - Better Off Wed - For Better Or Hearse - Dead Ringer—A Novella - Review To A Kill - Death on the Aisle - Night of the Living Wed - Eat, Prey, Love Q - So, why should readers give these books a try? A - Because the Annabelle Archer cozy mystery series is fun, light, and the perfect escape or beach reading. Plus, the first book in the series won the Agatha Award for the Best First Novel. Praise for the Annabelle Archer "A delightfully witty blend of murder and matrimony"- Donna Andrews, author of "Gone Gull" and "How the Finch Stole Christmas" "Cozy mystery lovers should briskly march up their bookstore aisles to grab a copy of Better Off Wed."-- Susan McBride, author of "Come Helen High Water" "Laura Durham has given her readers a reason to celebrate."-- Elaine Viets, author of "The Art of Murder" "Delightful mystery . . . Cozy readers will love this invitation to a wedding to die for."-- Nancy Martin, author of "Bye Bye Blackbird" “Laura Durham and her flair for witty characters and murder amidst matrimony are a match made in mystery heaven.

284 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 19, 2017

190 people are currently reading
413 people want to read

About the author

Laura Durham

32 books268 followers
I'm a writer and reformed wedding planner who loves quiet mornings, great books, paddle boarding, and blackberry cobbler.

I write humorous cozy mysteries about a wedding planner because I like books that make me laugh and because, after planning weddings for twenty years, I have a long list of people to kill.

To try my first novel for free, go to http://www.freebook.lauradurham.com

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5 stars
219 (53%)
4 stars
140 (34%)
3 stars
42 (10%)
2 stars
8 (1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Emmalynn.
2,953 reviews30 followers
March 30, 2025
wedding Disaster

Annabelle and her team are planning the wedding from hell on a yacht. With a flighty bride; the Step mother from hell intent on upstaging the bride; a father caught in the middle, sabotage and mishaps, it’s not to long before the first body drops. It seems there’s more boiling beneath the surface of this wedding than jitters. Annabel’s team sets out to save the wedding before they become the next victims.
Profile Image for Yvonne.
308 reviews5 followers
April 23, 2021
This book had a lot of action!
2,425 reviews43 followers
January 4, 2018
I enjoyed the book overall but with reservations. There is always quite a bit of silliness around her friends but this time there was too much silliness for my taste. I enjoy the Annabelle and love that she had a good heart. The central plot was good and I almost cried when the victim was revealed. Would love to read a less zany series from this author and usually enjoy the series inspite of and sometimes for the silliness.

Profile Image for Penelope.
1,475 reviews15 followers
October 20, 2022
DEATH ON THE AISLE is #5 in Lauren Durham’s “Annabelle Archer Wedding Planner” Mystery series.

MY RATING GUIDE: 3 to 3.5 Stars. I mostly enjoyed this book and will probably read the next title. True lovers of Cozy Cuisine and Cozy Mysteries would most likely enjoy this lighthearted mystery series more than I (as explained below).

1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= THIS WAS CUTE; 3.5= I ENJOYED THIS; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).

DEATH ON THE AISLE features Annabelle Archer who for the past 5+yrs has owned and operated Wedding Belles. Wedding Belles holds the honor (and considerable stress) of being among the top wedding planning businesses within the most prestigious circles of Washington DC. In DOTA, Wedding Belles completes one drama-filled wedding only to ramp up for the next, which is scheduled to occur on the decks of a super-yacht belonging to the father of the bride-to-be. With an anticipated one hundred and fifty top-tier guests, a villainous step-mother, a vengeful stage designer, an endless plague of frightful incidents and clashing personalities - what could possibly go wrong? A dead body, perhaps?

Comments -
1) DEATH ON THE AISLE can be read as a standalone title. Each novel contains significant information of secondary characters to understand their relationships with MC Annabelle Archer. I prefer reading the books in order, beginning with book #1, but that’s simply my preference.
2) The Annabelle Archer series is a Cozy Mystery. The incidents vary from the bizarre and the unbelievable to the quite ridiculous. I tend to enjoy Mysteries in the middle ground between Cozy and Graphic. At times, this series pushes my boundaries for antics (reminding me of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum Bounty Hunter series) but both Cozy Cuisine and true Cozy Mystery readers would probably love those same moments.
3) I felt the ending was satisfying and the disclosure of the antagonists was a bit of a surprise. Overall, I was satisfied with this diversion from my regular style of reading.
4) DOTA was a quick, light and easy read, suitable for most readers who prefer Clean fiction or YA readers.
5) One of the antagonists escapes without any consequences. Since this occurs too frequently in the real world, I really wanted him to earn his due comeuppance. This was a disappointing ending for me.

READER CAUTION ~ Suitable for most readers.
PROFANITY - Not that I recall. (Minimal, if any).
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None. Flirting.
VIOLENCE - PG. Murders occur but are described in minimally graphic terms.
Profile Image for Claire Matturro.
Author 14 books80 followers
August 15, 2018
When a novel starts off with a wedding planner frantically trying to hold together a ceremony involving a groom riding to the altar on an elephant, you the reader know you are in for a fast and fun ride yourself. DEATH OF THE AISLE only gets more intense from there, with a never-slow-for-a-moment pacing, layers of intrigue and twists, and just enough romance to balance the murders and mysteries.

Heroine Annabelle, the intrepid wedding planner and accidental crime solver, is faced with one of the most challenging weddings of her career. No, not the one with the elephant. But one with a sweet, demure bride (for a chance!) and a helpful, wealthy, consideration father-of-the-bride. So what’s the problem? Well, the demanding, domineering step-mother-in-law, the fact the wedding is to be held on a giant yacht (which Annabelle is told to call a “ship”), that a TV crew will be filming the whole thing, the odious, meddling stylist from New York—oh, and that the harbormaster’s body floats up beside the ship well before the count-down to the wedding begins. Did I mention there is a huge, ugly weather event brewing which threatens the whole wedding plan? And that a crew member goes missing? And then another body is found in the steam room of the yacht? And that a flying squirrel is loose on the ship?

Through it all, Annabelle is assisted by her loyal side-kicks, Kate of the high heels and her cliche-malapropisms, Richard the chef now assisted by Hermes, the dog, Fern the hairdresser, and two of my favorites, the Christian Biker Florists. And, of course, the handsome detective that makes Annabelle’s heart race is back for more crime-solving and romancing. Author Laura Durham infuses these characters with enough complexities, foibles, and talents that they transcend stereotypes and develop as real, intriguing, and delightful characters. Fern’s antics after a few bottles of champagne are laugh out loud funny.

This is a delightful book. I am glad I was able to read an Advanced Readers Copy of it, and I know the final book must be even better.
Profile Image for Vivian.
769 reviews13 followers
October 3, 2017
The characters: The amount of characters contained in the story was exactly what was needed to carry it. - everyone was in their place for their purpose. The author hit a good balance in describing them - the wacky neighbor and the caterer for example. They were a good pair to over describe, but the author refrained and gave you just enough to be able to picture them so you could appreciate their added flavor to the story.

The backdrop: I am a "visual" reader - I do like to picture in my mind the locations depicted in a story so it was important to me to be able to visualize the yacht since the action in the story is very location based. Once again, the author didn't rely on too much "filler" in describing the yacht which would have been very easy to do.

The story: The resolution of the crime was believable, not something I even suspected, although in hindsight the author provided clues throughout the story. I was surprised by the identity of the perpetrator. I felt the resolution and conclusion to the book were wrapped up nicely and didn't appear to be too rushed which I find is very common and takes away some of my enjoyment of a book. I prefer a bit of romance with my cozies so I appreciated it in the book and it did not overpower the story.

My overall feeling after reading was that this was a good book that didn't drag on or happen too quickly, had likeable characters and a nice backdrop to the story that was unusual (a wedding on a yacht). I would recommend it for a cozy reader and I would definitely read more that the author has written. I do love the new cover art - it totally catches my eye.

I did receive an ARC of this book from the author, but the opinion expressed is my own honest one and totally voluntary.
Profile Image for Lisa G. Hudson.
700 reviews62 followers
October 3, 2017
DYNAMIC!

This is my first time to read one of Laura Durham’s books and I am hooked! Death on the Aisle is dynamic from beginning to end! Annabelle Archer is a wonderful lead character for the series. She’s a bright, energetic, diplomatic, caring, entrepreneurial Wedding Planner in DC. Talk about a tough market. She has assembled a team of talented professionals to work with her that includes a Caterer, Floral Designer, Cake Specialist and her right hand woman Kate. Together they’ve become one of the most sought after groups for taking care of even the most challenging brides. What happens when the challenge is in the form of an insufferable stepmother who tries to manipulate all the wedding plans and the wedding is taking place on a Super Yacht? A fantastic entertaining tale that will keep you entertained and challenged to determine who are the good guys/bad guys as the body count goes up. In spite of all the mischief & mayhem the Wedding Belles will not be deterred in carrying out their duties to see that their Bride has an unforgettable day! I was provided an ARC by the author. The opinion expressed here is my own and without any influence.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
201 reviews5 followers
October 4, 2017
One of the main strengths of this series for me is this author's ability to describe people very well with just a few words. The world-building in general is very good, but the character descriptions are fantastic. I also like that the wedding planning business plays an important part in the story, including the investigation.
This is the second book in the series that I have read, but I didn't feel lost due to not having read the last few books. I like the give and take in Annabelle's friendships with her two best friends.

The mystery was good. I guessed parts of it, but the motive slipped right by me til the end. I like cozy mysteries that I don't guess the solution to right away. I am starting to wonder about the lengths Annabelle will go to in order to have her events go smoothly. It'll be interesting to see where the series goes with this down the road.

I reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for carolintallahassee .
227 reviews38 followers
May 4, 2022
I would love to see this series on Netflix, or PBS! I have recently been invited by Netflix to review books for potential series, and this is one of my top ten, it is too cute, witty, and full of zany characters. My other top choice would be CS Harris, Sebastian St. Cyr Series, wouldn't these two different but great book series play well one after the other? They could be the saving of Netflix. I am thrilled that companies are looking to books in order to entertain, when you watch the Golden Age of Hollywood, the majority of great stories were directly from books or magazine serials, it is past time to return to quality writing, and original characters to bring viewership back to our living rooms.
carolintallahassee
Profile Image for Kelly Shand.
7 reviews7 followers
November 26, 2017
I've been waiting for the end of this book since 2011. I remember reading a chapter on the author's event's blog.
I was surprised by the ending. I did enjoy the funny bits, such as Richard's weather proofing and the inevitable flying squirrel cameo.
It's a good read and the author worked hard to pick up the timeline for her 3 original wedding planner books. It wasn't perfectly seamless, considering the gap between publication years, but it was good.

Quick easy fun cozy with a hint of romance.
Profile Image for Greta Mlodik.
14 reviews
July 21, 2018
Love, 80s decor and guns

I love how Laura writes such wonderful descriptions! From the tangerine saari to the beige toga and garbage bag wrapped, duct tape sealed prada suit. The comedy of errors with Leatrice and how Kate continues to terribly misquote sayings kept me laughing throughout the book :)
Profile Image for stephen g. carroll.
49 reviews
June 22, 2021
Death on the Aisle ( Book 5)

I really enjoyed another adventure of Annabelle's : this time planning a wedding on a super yacht. The characters in this series are hilarious, and seem to make Annabelle's life more difficult than helpful. Everything that can possibly go wrong does, including murder, a monsoon and an obnoxious step mother. It's a fun read.
281 reviews
December 9, 2021
Anchors away but don't trip on the blood.

Running out of praise for Laura's books. Annabelle, Kate, and crew make for a quite a hilarious team of friends who make a lot of mistakes that end up getting them to the solution even if it's not a very stright path.
My only problem with the characters is the very stereotype of gays she presents.
Profile Image for Brandon Dean.
17 reviews1 follower
October 7, 2017
Love this series!

The characters are spectacular and original. Every book is an enjoyable read and keeps you guessing with great misdirection.
I love the author's humor that comes through in all the crazy interactions and situations.
Definitely looking forward to the next book!
1 review
October 11, 2017
Annabelle Archer

I love,love,love this series. My favorite character is Lattrice. She is so wonderful and funny. Actually I love the the whole gang and I can't for the next book to come out.
Profile Image for Samreads_alot.
126 reviews1 follower
June 12, 2020
This seemed like the longest one so far, and I’m sorry but it’s realllllyyy lagged in the middle. The ending was pretty good but I got really bored at one point. So sorry! Definitely going to keep reading the series though! I love the characters and looking forward to what happens next!
415 reviews14 followers
July 19, 2020
Another GREAT cozy

This book is full of crazy adventures, with quirky characters. Weddings are always filled with mishaps, but thankfully I've never been to one involving a murder 🤣 If you enjoy cozies, is definitely recommend this series!
Profile Image for Jana Gundy.
1,919 reviews17 followers
December 11, 2020
A mess of a good time!

Annabelle has one of the most difficult weddings to pull of on a yacht with a crazy stepmom. The gang is back and funnier than ever. Things also sort of slowly move along for our wedding planner and a certain detective!
Profile Image for Tara Woolard (Ehrbar).
124 reviews9 followers
January 31, 2021
She does it again! Absolutely love it

This book was great and had great twists. I love jow it keeps you guessing especially when you think you have it figured out anf BAM it changes. I am just so hooked to her series I can't get enough. On to the next book!
306 reviews7 followers
July 29, 2022
crazy!!!

This book is number 4 in the series. The wedding takes place on a mega yacht. Lots of unexpected twists and turns. There is a happing bride at the end! Imagine 150 drunk guests, a heavy rain storm, murders and Fern in terrycloth towels! This was one of my favorites!
12 reviews
February 17, 2018
Death on the aisle

Another great Annabelle archer mystery. All her friends were part of the book. Finally she connected with detective Reese. Can't wait to read the next one.
13 reviews
May 14, 2019
The character of Richard is my favorite, followed closely by Fern. Some of their lines have me laughing out loud! These books always make me hungry for Richard's amazing food!
19 reviews
February 16, 2020
Read this series

5th book in the series I read this one in one day. Lovely storyline,funny,gripping and easy to follow. Well worth a read!
1,286 reviews19 followers
September 7, 2020
I love Death on the Aisle. This book is entertaining and hilarious. The quirky characters solve the mystery through many crazy and entertaining adventures. I love the characters! The mystery has so many twists and red herrings that you are kept guessing until the end. I could not put the book down. This is such a fun book.
4,416 reviews28 followers
February 26, 2021
Death on the Aisle review

Death on the Aisle is the fifth sweet romance in the Annabelle Archer Wedding Planner Mystery series written by author Laura Durham.
Profile Image for Saloni Gupta.
276 reviews8 followers
July 21, 2021
Certainly not the best one in the series but still the characters were as awesome and fun as ever😇😇
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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