A review by yvo_about_books
Beach Wedding by Michael Ledwidge

4.0

Finished reading: February 5th 2022

"There are reasons why some people leave the place they were born and raised and never come back. Usually, they're very good reasons."

*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Hanover Square Press in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***

I knew that I wanted to read Beach Wedding as soon as I first read the blurb. The promise of a Hamptons setting, an old murder trial and danger along the way made it impossible to resist this story, and I'm glad I didn't as I ended up having a brilliant time with it. Beach Wedding is suspenseful, engaging and flows with a pace that will make you keep turning those pages. If you like your thrillers fast and with plenty of twists and danger, you will like what you find here!

At first it seems like the story is focusing on the Rourke family returning to the Hamptons to celebrate the wedding of one of the brothers in style. Hints at an unfortunate past relationship with the town are made, but you are kept in the dark initially about the main focus of this story. Instead of distracting, it helped getting to know the main characters in play while also inciting your curiosity about why exactly especially Terry never wanted to return to the Hamptons. The characters themselves are easy to like and I soon found myself rooting for Terry and hoping he would achieve what he was after... Being able to connect to the characters always makes the story so much easier to enjoy.

I won't go into details to avoid spoilers, but the old murder case and trial are absolutely fascinating and I loved how this element was developed and incorporated into the present. The way Terry digs in and doesn't let go until he discovers the truth is inspiring, and especially when he stumbles across a LOT of roadblocks and danger along the way. There is a focus on corruption and how some rich people think their money can make everything disappear... Even if it means destroying other people's lives along the way.

The writing is very engaging and Terry is the perfect character to lead this story. I really liked his personality and voice as well as the way he is stubborn and determined to find the truth... There are many plot twists, secrets and lies to keep you busy along the way, and there will be plenty of tense moments as well as action to keep your heart rate on the high side. Beach Wedding was definitely a winner for me and if you like the sound of diving into a world of the rich, famous, family and murder, I can recommend getting a copy.