In the cozy mystery genre, blending humor, suspense, and a dash of romance is no small feat. Ava Hunter achieves just that in her charming novel, For Better or Hearse, a refreshing take on the life of a small-town wedding planner wrapped up in a puzzling murder mystery. This book forms part of Hunter’s "An Annabelle Archer Wedding Planner Mystery" series, which has been delighting fans with its unique blend of crime-solving and event management dilemmas.

The story is set against the backdrop of the bustling wedding scene in Washington D.C., where our protagonist, Annabelle Archer, reigns as a talented and much-in-demand wedding planner. Just as she is gearing up for another opulent and high-profile ceremony, the unthinkable happens: a murder at the wedding venue. Instead of bouquets and cake tastings, Annabelle finds herself dodging suspicious glances and gathering clues. The incident threatens to derail her career and she is left with no choice but to turn detective, seeking to clear her name and uncover the murderer.

Annabelle Archer as a character is delightful and instantly relatable. She combines intelligence with a quirky sense of humor and an indomitable spirit, making her the perfect amateur sleuth. Her team includes an assortment of well-drawn characters, from her suave assistant Richard to her best friend and caterer Leatrice. Each character adds depth and humor to the narrative, creating a community that readers will enjoy revisiting. Leatrice, with her no-nonsense attitude and penchant for gossip, provides both critical clues and comic relief, while Richard’s calm demeanor and loyalty make him a stabilizing force for Annabelle.

Hunter’s writing style shines in her dialogues, which are snappy and filled with witty banter that keeps the reader entertained throughout. The pacing of the story is brisk, with a plot that twists and turns leading the reader through red herrings and revealing clues that are sprinkled cleverly throughout the narrative.

One of the standout aspects of For Better or Hearse is how Hunter incorporates details of the wedding planning industry. From intricate flower arrangements to last-minute seating chart crises, the novel offers an insider’s look at the complexities and dramas of wedding planning. This attention to detail does not just enrich the setting—it also integrates seamlessly with the mystery, with several plot points revolving around these operational intricacies.

The mystery itself is well-crafted with enough complexity to keep readers guessing until the end. Hunter manages to strike a balance between developing the intrigue and providing plausible red herrings that don't frustrate the reader but rather pull them deeper into the mystery. The resolution is satisfying, weaved elegantly into earlier parts of the story, rewarding attentive readers with its logical but surprising conclusion.

Beyond just a mystery, the book also subtly explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the strain of balancing professional and personal life. Annabelle's relationships with her friends and associates reveal layers to her character and contribute to the book’s emotional depth. These elements ensure that the reader’s engagement goes beyond mere curiosity about whodunit, investing them in the protagonist’s personal growth and relationships.

Hunter also excels at setting the scene. Her descriptions of D.C. and wedding venues transport readers right into the heart of the city, amidst the glamor and chaos of luxury weddings. The setting is not just a backdrop but an active element of the story that enhances the suspense and provides the perfect arena for drama.

In conclusion, For Better or Hearse by Ava Hunter is a delightful read that deftly mixes elements of humor, mystery, and drama to create a compelling story. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of cozy mysteries or new to the genre, you’ll find this book a thrilling and enjoyable read. It’s a testament to Hunter’s skill as a storyteller that the reader is left satisfied yet looking forward to returning to Annabelle Archer’s world, eager for more of her adventures in both wedding planning and amateur sleuthing.

The book not only promises an engaging distraction but delivers a full course meal of intriguing characters, snappy dialogues, and a mystery that keeps you hooked. Ava Hunter’s For Better or Hearse is highly recommended for those who like their mysteries served with a side of laughter, romance, and a well-detailed party plan.