Joan O’Leary’s “A Killer Wedding.” (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

I recently read a copy of Joan O’Leary’s first novel, “A Killer Wedding,” after we messaged each other via social media. The last time I saw O’Leary was when she was in high school. I watched one of her GBasement Productions at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts. She wrote plays and directed her friends in original theatrical productions. (Full disclosure: I may have seen her at a few Lake Placid tennis matches as well.)

O’Leary didn’t ask me to write a review, but I read her book and loved it. Keep in mind, I’m not a book reviewer, but a book reader. I enjoy a wide range of subjects from history, politics, nature, fiction, young adult, fantasy and mystery. I usually have a few books I’m reading at the same time.

I like having a quick read at hand, like “A Killer Wedding,” that grabs my attention and keeps me turning the pages to get to the end. O’Leary’s dialog is quick-witted and fresh. It’s too easy to classify “A Killer Wedding” as a beach read. Though O’Leary’s book is entertaining and ideal for a vacation, it’s a four-season read. Cozy up with a copy any time of year and enjoy this clever, fast-paced mystery.

O’Leary builds her story from the first page. The story alternates between the various characters’ points of view. We gain insight into the controlling mind of the Beaufort/Ripton family matriarch, Gloria, as she defends her billion-dollar beauty empire. Her toxic relatives delve into their own perspective as everyone prepares for a luxury destination wedding at Ireland’s Ballymoon Castle Hotel. The rent-a-wardrobe Bespoke Wedding reporter Christine is sent on her first major assignment to cover the wedding of the year, but finds herself in the middle of a crime scene. Lawsuits, hidden agendas and murder abound.

O’Leary paints the picture of a privileged life with the swiftness of an Instagram reel, casting vignettes into unimaginable purchasing power and wannabes hoping to go viral. Roll up your sleeves. There is a crime to solve.

I recommend savoring your precious time and escaping into the pages of “A Killer Wedding.” Perhaps you will discover all the Ballymoon Castle and Ripton family secrets. The Bookstore Plus is presenting “A Killer Wedding” conversation and book signing with Joan O’Leary on Thursday, Oct. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Northwood School Innovation Hub, 2495 Main St., Lake Placid. The event is free, but registration is recommended at luma.com/84gbpuki. Books will be available for purchase and signed at the event. Any local bookstore, online bookshop and major retailers will also have copies available. Please shop local. Enjoy reading!