Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Loveda Brown: Lover's Knot by Jolie Tunnell is the fifth book in the Idyllwild Mystery series. Molly's wedding is finally approaching. In just a few days, the whole town will be celebrating Molly's marriage to Lindley. The big day is threatened when one of the guests dies and foul play is suspected. Loveda already has her hands full with bridesmaid duties, but if she doesn't investigate, the bride could be next. Finding the killer is easier said than done as secrets tied to the past come to light, including one that leads Loveda back to Lindley.

Molly's wedding takes center stage in this mystery with the plot revolving around the wedding as the catalyst for secrets to be revealed. Loveda continues to be the protector of the town with a determination that feels like the driving force of Idyllwild. She has a personality that just gets better with each book as she's strong-willed, bold, and not afraid to be herself. A humorous and great example of this can be found in her pride in getting the respect of the local men because she can ride, shoot, rope, and cuss. Jolie Tunnell delves further into the history of Idyllwild, such as a former sanatorium which ties into the mystery through an incident that connects to Lindley and could affect more than just the couple. A few twists will take you by surprise as the story unfolds and as you root for Molly to get her perfect day.

The writing continues to make use of great imagery that captures the period with subtle word usage. You get a clear image of this town that has a Wild West aesthetic with a charming small-town exterior. The humor is driven by the dynamics between the characters but is specifically seen through the spunky nature of Loveda. It's the perfect time for a wedding in Loveda Brown: Lover's Knot which finds Loveda doing all she can to save her friend's big day and solve a murder with surprising secrets and twists found along the way.