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The Margie Peterson Mysteries #2
Mother Knows Best
Things aren’t going well for private investigator and mom Margie Peterson. Her husband, Blake, is claiming his taste for drag queens is “just a phase.” Her first-grade daughter isn’t fitting in at her new posh elementary school, Holy Oaks Catholic School. And her hippie mother has swept into town and replaced the family’s store of processed foods with seaweed snacks. To top it all off, a late-night phone call from her boss, Peaches Barlowe, has pulled Margie into a very strange murder case, one that involves the Holy Oaks headmaster, George Cavendish. Poor man—he just happened to die in a dominatrix’s pink vinyl wading pool while wearing nothing but Aquaman tights and goggles.
As it turns out, there are a lot of people who might have wanted Mr. Cavendish dead, from his bereaved, betrayed widow to the shady owners of the local strip joint. Not even Margie’s best friend, whose daughter didn’t get into Holy Oaks, is above suspicion. Can the overtaxed PI solve the case before things get even weirder?
As it turns out, there are a lot of people who might have wanted Mr. Cavendish dead, from his bereaved, betrayed widow to the shady owners of the local strip joint. Not even Margie’s best friend, whose daughter didn’t get into Holy Oaks, is above suspicion. Can the overtaxed PI solve the case before things get even weirder?
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2016
212 people are currently reading
653 people want to read
About the author
Karen MacInerney
52 books1,148 followersI'm the author of the Agatha-nominated Gray Whale Inn mystery series, Tales of an Urban Werewolf. the Margie Peterson mysteries and the Dewberry Farm mysteries (plus a new fantasy in the works). My reading is like my writing: eclectic!
I grew up in the Northeast, but I currently live in Austin with my husband, two kids, and a houserabbit named Bunny. Feel free to visit me online at www.karenmacinerney.com; I love connecting with readers.
I grew up in the Northeast, but I currently live in Austin with my husband, two kids, and a houserabbit named Bunny. Feel free to visit me online at www.karenmacinerney.com; I love connecting with readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
February 13, 2016
I read the first book in this series and loved the characters. Margie is trying to survive day-to-day with a husband who was in love with another man (now deceased) but trying not to be gay, a six year old daughter who thinks she is a dog and only eats white food, a vegan mother who thinks she can fix everyone's problems if they will just cut all the chemicals out of their diets, and an office in the back of a waxing salon.
Margie is working as a private investigator for the colorful Peaches, unfortunately they appear to be bumbling their way through every investigation. When Peaches calls Margie at 3:00 a.m. to help her move a body, they find themselves in the middle of a full out police investigation with Margie's best friend as the suspect.
Then there is the pregnant pot bellied pig Margie is tasked with getting back from their client's ex-husband, who stole Bubba Sue (yes, Bubba Sue). Bubba Sue may be a pot bellied pig, but she is way too big for the cat carrier Margie brought with her for transport home. Well her head fits inside, but that's about it., and Bubba Sue is kind of mean.
If you enjoy funny situations and characters, who are trying really hard to get through each day, this is definitely the series for you. I recommend you start with the first book of the series (Mother's Day Out) which introduces the characters and why they are where they are in their lives. It is well worth your time.
Karen MacInerney writes likable characters. Margie Peterson is not her only series, she also write The Gray Whale Inn Mystery series (also excellent) and recommended (by me).
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Margie is working as a private investigator for the colorful Peaches, unfortunately they appear to be bumbling their way through every investigation. When Peaches calls Margie at 3:00 a.m. to help her move a body, they find themselves in the middle of a full out police investigation with Margie's best friend as the suspect.
Then there is the pregnant pot bellied pig Margie is tasked with getting back from their client's ex-husband, who stole Bubba Sue (yes, Bubba Sue). Bubba Sue may be a pot bellied pig, but she is way too big for the cat carrier Margie brought with her for transport home. Well her head fits inside, but that's about it., and Bubba Sue is kind of mean.
If you enjoy funny situations and characters, who are trying really hard to get through each day, this is definitely the series for you. I recommend you start with the first book of the series (Mother's Day Out) which introduces the characters and why they are where they are in their lives. It is well worth your time.
Karen MacInerney writes likable characters. Margie Peterson is not her only series, she also write The Gray Whale Inn Mystery series (also excellent) and recommended (by me).
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2019
Edited on November 16th, 2019
I'm lowering this book's grade to 2.8 stars because try as I might, I can't remember a single thing about it.
So it was a fun read at the time, but apparently forgettable.
3.5 stars
This is a second installment on a series, and even though I haven't read the first book, I didn't have any trouble keeping up with the characters and their backstories. Actually, sometimes I felt like the author repeated some bits of information a little too often, which can become annoying. I've read an advance copy, though, maybe it was fixed by the time it went on sale.
Margie Peterson, our heroine, is overwhelmed. Her marriage is falling to pieces, her oldest child is behaving oddly, her in-laws are rich and meddling, her new age mother is coming to visit and she has a crazy job at a detective agency. She's also a bit of a klutz. Now throw in the murder of the headmaster of the private elementary school and a 'pignapping' (or pig rescue, depending on who you ask) and you have this book in a nutshell (emphasis on nuts).
As I read this book, I could easily see it as a TV Show, a dramedy like The Mysteries of Laura or Monk. It has the kind of action and insanity that would work perfectly on TV.
The writing is great, even when the plot is a little on the verge of escaping the realms of believability. The characters are fun and charismatic and the pace doesn't leave space for boredom.
This is a nice read, even if not really my style. I highly recommend if you like a mix of mystery and with lots of laughs.
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer author Karen MacInerney for providing me with a copy of Mother Knows Best in exchange for an honest review.
I'm lowering this book's grade to 2.8 stars because try as I might, I can't remember a single thing about it.
So it was a fun read at the time, but apparently forgettable.
3.5 stars
This is a second installment on a series, and even though I haven't read the first book, I didn't have any trouble keeping up with the characters and their backstories. Actually, sometimes I felt like the author repeated some bits of information a little too often, which can become annoying. I've read an advance copy, though, maybe it was fixed by the time it went on sale.
Margie Peterson, our heroine, is overwhelmed. Her marriage is falling to pieces, her oldest child is behaving oddly, her in-laws are rich and meddling, her new age mother is coming to visit and she has a crazy job at a detective agency. She's also a bit of a klutz. Now throw in the murder of the headmaster of the private elementary school and a 'pignapping' (or pig rescue, depending on who you ask) and you have this book in a nutshell (emphasis on nuts).
As I read this book, I could easily see it as a TV Show, a dramedy like The Mysteries of Laura or Monk. It has the kind of action and insanity that would work perfectly on TV.
The writing is great, even when the plot is a little on the verge of escaping the realms of believability. The characters are fun and charismatic and the pace doesn't leave space for boredom.
This is a nice read, even if not really my style. I highly recommend if you like a mix of mystery and with lots of laughs.
I'd like to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer author Karen MacInerney for providing me with a copy of Mother Knows Best in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2018
Important safety reminder: when you are hiding from bad guys or sneaking up on a crazed pig, turn off your phone.
Months earlier our heroine was a slightly unhappy housewife with two kids. Now she is a PI, her husband was pushed out of the closet and her daughter thinks she’s a dog. Sometimes life just goes from one weird thing to the next with bridges of insanity in between.
Good murder mystery with well written characters.
Months earlier our heroine was a slightly unhappy housewife with two kids. Now she is a PI, her husband was pushed out of the closet and her daughter thinks she’s a dog. Sometimes life just goes from one weird thing to the next with bridges of insanity in between.
Good murder mystery with well written characters.
March 15, 2016
An amusing mystery as Margie Peterson struggles to cope with all the changes in her life. Learning her husband prefers other men but he still wants to remain the closet. Her 6-year-old daughter thinks she is a dog and her in-laws are sending said daughter to a pricey new school. In addition, her Mother who is a health nut is coming for a visit. Margie's employer, PI Peaches Barlow takes her to a strip place and calls her late one night to help move a body. You are going to love the teacup pig, Bubba Sue. This book is character driven. I plan on reading the first book in the series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Thomas and Mercer through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Thomas and Mercer through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions are my own.
February 15, 2016
I am so happy that I was given the opportunity to read this book.
What a quirky story filled with outlandish characters. This is definitely not your typical cozy mystery.
Private Investigator Margie is dealing with a lot in her life. Her husband is having an identity crisis, her daughter is acting like a dog and her free spirit of a mother is visiting and throwing out all of her not so nutritious food.
If this isn't enough, Margie receives a 3 a.m. phone call from her boss, Peaches.
Answering that call leads Margie knee deep in strip clubs, illegal drugs and of course, wrangling a very pregnant Bubba Sue, who is not a typical tea cup pig.
Believe me, this book is one of THE BEST cozy mysteries I've read. This is a ten star story for sure.
Throughout this story the author had me laughing and crying while keeping me guessing until the very end.
I highly recommend this story and can't wait to share this review with my book group.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
What a quirky story filled with outlandish characters. This is definitely not your typical cozy mystery.
Private Investigator Margie is dealing with a lot in her life. Her husband is having an identity crisis, her daughter is acting like a dog and her free spirit of a mother is visiting and throwing out all of her not so nutritious food.
If this isn't enough, Margie receives a 3 a.m. phone call from her boss, Peaches.
Answering that call leads Margie knee deep in strip clubs, illegal drugs and of course, wrangling a very pregnant Bubba Sue, who is not a typical tea cup pig.
Believe me, this book is one of THE BEST cozy mysteries I've read. This is a ten star story for sure.
Throughout this story the author had me laughing and crying while keeping me guessing until the very end.
I highly recommend this story and can't wait to share this review with my book group.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
February 14, 2016
A fun read! Some relatively serious topics as Margie tries to deal with a husband who has recently come out of the closet and children who are showing the strain (or maybe just being kids) and keep stability in the family. At the same time she is involved in an old fashioned who-dun-it with hilarious undertones. Karen has a wonderful sense of the ridiculous. I found myself giggling and trying to maintain some sense of dignity as I finished the book over coffee at the local McDonalds. A great sequel to Mother's Day Out, which left some things unresolved and left you wanting more. This also left me waiting for the next one. It did bring some closure, but there are plenty of issues that can lead into another book. Comparing these books to Karen's other series (Gray Whale Inn and Dewberry Farm), both are equally well written and engrossing, but they show that Karen brings her talents to somewhat different genres successfully.
February 17, 2016
I haven't laughed that hard reading a mystery cozy in a very long time. The characters are fantastic, every single one of them. What a life are poor heroine leads. I love that there were a bunch of little cases interspersed in this story. Her marriage issue had me giggling to myself, boy, I know the answer to that one. Girl needs to get out of that situation.
I need to go back and revisit some of the prior mysteries in the set, what a great cozy series. I strongly recommend to anyone who likes humor with their cozy mystery. Very well written, and the character development is excellent.
*I''d like to take this opportunity to thank the author/publisher/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest opinion*
I need to go back and revisit some of the prior mysteries in the set, what a great cozy series. I strongly recommend to anyone who likes humor with their cozy mystery. Very well written, and the character development is excellent.
*I''d like to take this opportunity to thank the author/publisher/NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest opinion*
March 23, 2024
A hilarious book in the style of the Stephanie Plum series. In this second installment of the "Mother" series, our heroine is tasked with retrieving a pignapped pregnant "Teacup" in name only pig for a client while dealing with an estranged homosexual husband, new age macrobiotic mother and a daughter who believes she is a Pekiinese nammed Fifi.
April 13, 2016
Mother Knows Best by Karen MacInerney is the second book in The Margie Peterson Mysteries series. Margie (Marigold) Peterson is an assistant detective at Peachtree Investigations owned by Peaches Barlowe. Margie gets a late night call from Peaches. She needs some assistance and gives Margie an address. The headmaster of Holy Oaks Catholic School (Margie’s daughter, Elsie just started going here), George Cavendish is dead in a wading pool at the apartment of a lady of the evening (get my drift). Peaches needs Margie’s help in moving the body (Peaches owes a favor which is why they are doing this task). Margie is shocked to find George in Aquaman tights and goggles (trust me you do not want to know why). They get the body moved, and Margie hopes that will be the end of it (hope they did not leave anything behind). Unfortunately, Margie’s best friend, Becky Hale becomes a prime suspect (thanks to Margie). Now Margie needs to prove her friend’s innocence or admit to moving the dead guy. This turns out to be the least of Margie’s problems. Her husband, Blake has decided to take a Journey to Manhood course. It helps a man discover his “manhood” (he is attracted to drag queen’s) and wants Margie to participate by joining the female group (I know what my answer would be). Also, Margie’s mother is visiting (surprise). She cleans out Margie’s house of all the foods that are bad for you (the one’s that taste good) and exchanges them for items no child will touch (items with no sugar and are oddly colored). Buckle up and hold on! Margie is in for a lively time.
Mother Knows Best reminded me of a screwball comedy. Lucy and Ethel would have been right at home (if you do not get this reference you need to watch more late night television). I just thought there was too much nonsense going on. One example is Margie’s daughter, Elsie acting like a dog (goes by Fifi, wears a collar, drinks water out of a bowl on the floor, and will only eat white food). Husband was caught sleeping with a transvestite named Selena S. Mother Knows Best is just not my type of book. If you enjoy this type of comedy, then you will love reading Mother Knows Best. The mystery was extremely simple and easy to figure out. I give Mother Knows Best 3 out of 5 stars. The novel is an easy and quick read. Mother Knows Best can be enjoyed without having read the first book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of Mother Knows Best from NetGalley (and the publisher) in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.
Mother Knows Best reminded me of a screwball comedy. Lucy and Ethel would have been right at home (if you do not get this reference you need to watch more late night television). I just thought there was too much nonsense going on. One example is Margie’s daughter, Elsie acting like a dog (goes by Fifi, wears a collar, drinks water out of a bowl on the floor, and will only eat white food). Husband was caught sleeping with a transvestite named Selena S. Mother Knows Best is just not my type of book. If you enjoy this type of comedy, then you will love reading Mother Knows Best. The mystery was extremely simple and easy to figure out. I give Mother Knows Best 3 out of 5 stars. The novel is an easy and quick read. Mother Knows Best can be enjoyed without having read the first book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of Mother Knows Best from NetGalley (and the publisher) in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.
February 18, 2016
I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher through Netscape in return for a fair and honest review.
The latest addition to this hilarious series will not disappoint fans of Margie and Peaches. Karen MacInerney is at her outrageous best with a series that feels like Lucy and Ethyl meet the cozy mystery genre, with more than a tad of naughty thrown in for fun.
Everything about the plot is ridiculously funny. Margie’s husband is probably gay; her daughter wants to be a dog and spends a lot of time outside in her doghouse, growling and barking; her mother is a health nut and insists that the whole family eats green smoothies and kale omelets; Margie and Peaches just can’t seem to run an effective investigation to save their lives; and the victim is found in a truly unbelievable and x rated, unique situation. MOTHER KNOWS BEST is definitely not for the faint of heart, the easily offended, or anyone who doesn’t enjoy laughing so hard that coffee comes out of their nose. Yet somehow, through all the bumbling, the girls manage to uncover enough real information to nab the murderer and save their own skins from being arrested for everything from interfering with a crime scene to absconding with someone’s mail.
I really enjoyed this book.
The latest addition to this hilarious series will not disappoint fans of Margie and Peaches. Karen MacInerney is at her outrageous best with a series that feels like Lucy and Ethyl meet the cozy mystery genre, with more than a tad of naughty thrown in for fun.
Everything about the plot is ridiculously funny. Margie’s husband is probably gay; her daughter wants to be a dog and spends a lot of time outside in her doghouse, growling and barking; her mother is a health nut and insists that the whole family eats green smoothies and kale omelets; Margie and Peaches just can’t seem to run an effective investigation to save their lives; and the victim is found in a truly unbelievable and x rated, unique situation. MOTHER KNOWS BEST is definitely not for the faint of heart, the easily offended, or anyone who doesn’t enjoy laughing so hard that coffee comes out of their nose. Yet somehow, through all the bumbling, the girls manage to uncover enough real information to nab the murderer and save their own skins from being arrested for everything from interfering with a crime scene to absconding with someone’s mail.
I really enjoyed this book.
February 22, 2016
Meet Margie, busy mother , struggling wife and private investigator working alongside the colourful Peaches.
Life is far from dull in Margie's life , her husband is gay and fighting the idea, her daughter is not liking her new school, her mother is in town for a visit and trying to have them all eating disgusting health food , her work is getting her into all kinds of sticky situations and her friendships are teetering on the brink of collapse if she does not save them. This book was so much fun! I would not recommend reading it in public, save it for a time you can read it in private where chuckles of laughter can be fully enjoyed . I loved how I could not predict what would happen next. Seeing Margie put in difficult situations and often with hilarious consequences made this so much fun , but the other side of this likeable PI is the good mother, loyal wife, caring daughter and good friend which made this an all round fantastic read . I can't wait for book three in this series!
I received this book for review through Netgalley.
Life is far from dull in Margie's life , her husband is gay and fighting the idea, her daughter is not liking her new school, her mother is in town for a visit and trying to have them all eating disgusting health food , her work is getting her into all kinds of sticky situations and her friendships are teetering on the brink of collapse if she does not save them. This book was so much fun! I would not recommend reading it in public, save it for a time you can read it in private where chuckles of laughter can be fully enjoyed . I loved how I could not predict what would happen next. Seeing Margie put in difficult situations and often with hilarious consequences made this so much fun , but the other side of this likeable PI is the good mother, loyal wife, caring daughter and good friend which made this an all round fantastic read . I can't wait for book three in this series!
I received this book for review through Netgalley.
February 28, 2016
Margie Peterson is just a regular gal who is a mom with a picture perfect family, predictable life, secure and sensible employme...wait...NOT! Spending a few hours in Margie’s daily reality certainly helped me put my own struggles, daily stresses as a school counselor into perspective. I smiled to myself and thought, “I may work with some really interesting families, but thank goodness the Petersons are not one of them!” When Margie is not seriously and intensely investigating crime through such activities as pig pursuits, bodily hair removal, and pole dancing, she is busy trying to keep her sweet young family safe, secure and happy. I loved my time spent peeking into Margie’s world of utter chaos and craziness, and I love Margie! She has tons of heart and she will do anything to make sure the good guys and gals emerge victorious, literally ANYTHING! Mother Knows Best is the second mystery in the absolutely hysterical Margie Peterson series. A school counselor’s advice? “Just read it!”
March 15, 2016
Pigs, whipped cream and a hard-core PTA
Intrepid. That's the first word that comes to mind. Her marriage is on the rocks, her daughter thinks she is a dog, her new age mother is coming for a visit and Margie and her PI boss, Peaches have to move a dead body dressed as Aquaman (who also happens to be her daughter's new principal). And yet, even on this roller coaster of a ride, Margie prevails. On top of this, add the rescue of Bubba Sue and you've got a rip-roarin' cozy like no other.
Author Karen MacInerny never disappoints. The laughs keep coming but the universal "humanity" keeps the story grounded and, at times, very poignant. To paraphrase Oscar Wilde, that which does not kill us makes us stronger. Well done. Can't wait for the next one.
Intrepid. That's the first word that comes to mind. Her marriage is on the rocks, her daughter thinks she is a dog, her new age mother is coming for a visit and Margie and her PI boss, Peaches have to move a dead body dressed as Aquaman (who also happens to be her daughter's new principal). And yet, even on this roller coaster of a ride, Margie prevails. On top of this, add the rescue of Bubba Sue and you've got a rip-roarin' cozy like no other.
Author Karen MacInerny never disappoints. The laughs keep coming but the universal "humanity" keeps the story grounded and, at times, very poignant. To paraphrase Oscar Wilde, that which does not kill us makes us stronger. Well done. Can't wait for the next one.
March 28, 2016
This is a great book; this is the second book in the A Margie Peterson Mystery series by Karen MacInerney. Margie Peterson is a mom and a private investigator. To make matters worse her husband is in a drag queen phase, her daughter isn’t fitting in her new school and her hippie mother has swept into town. When her boss calls her for a strange murder case, it is up to her find out what really happened to George Cavendish, the Holy Oaks headmaster. If you are looking for a fun mystery, then you need to read this one. I am looking forward to the next book by this author. A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
March 15, 2016
Undoubtedly the most delightful and comical cozy mystery I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Karen MacInerney has managed to create a bevy of quirky and intriguing characters that will captivate you throughout their journey. I absolutely love the way the author has made caricatures out of individuals we may encounter in daily life. Yes, the escapades were at times outlandish, but that's what made the story so enjoyable. Look out Lucy and Ethel, here comes Margie and Peaches. Simply a MUST read!!!
I was provided a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I was provided a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2016
This book was a change-of-pace from Karen's other series. It has more adult themes but they are handled with so much humor! You really feel for Margie and the problems her family faces. However, she does face her problems and faces them with such a sense of humor. As a retired teacher, I really enjoyed the school storyline and the fact that the subject of bullying (on both the child and adult level) is addressed appealed to me. I also love that her friend, Becky is a Mary Kay sales consultant. I am looking forward to the next in the Series!
March 6, 2016
ARC honest review for Thomas & Mercer Books via NetGalley.
The second book in the Margie Peterson Mysteries.
Another fun packed rollercoaster ride with Austin, Texas's newest PI, Margie Peterson.
From strip clubs, to school meetings, Margie manages to stumble in and out of situations that no sane mother of 2 would normally get themselves into...only Margie could, and does!
Please visit my blog @ https://finalchapterreadersgroup.word... ... like and follow.
The second book in the Margie Peterson Mysteries.
Another fun packed rollercoaster ride with Austin, Texas's newest PI, Margie Peterson.
From strip clubs, to school meetings, Margie manages to stumble in and out of situations that no sane mother of 2 would normally get themselves into...only Margie could, and does!
Please visit my blog @ https://finalchapterreadersgroup.word... ... like and follow.
March 13, 2016
Mother Knows Best is not your typical cozy mystery. Margie works as a private investigator for her boss, Peaches. Her husband is gay, her daughter thinks she's a Pekinese, and she finds the headmaster of her daughter's fancy private school murdered under unusual circumstances. Margie's life is definitely not the average suburban mom's life, but it makes for hilarious reading. I was laughing out loud as I read! Looking forward to the next installment featuring Margie and her friends.
November 9, 2023
This was a Did Not Finish for me. Too much filthy language and talk about pee, poop, toilets, etc. Definitely not a cozy. Maybe it was my mistake thinking it was a cozy. I'm surprised because I did like the first book. This is the end of the series for me.
February 19, 2016
NOTE: Received as an ARC from Netgalley.
Funny but foul-mouthed mommy mystery. Especially loved Bubba Sue, the "teapot" pig!
Funny but foul-mouthed mommy mystery. Especially loved Bubba Sue, the "teapot" pig!
November 20, 2020
Ok so here's the thing the first book was amazing. I actually enjoyed Margie, She had no clue what she was really doing, almost made me think of Stephanie Plum from the Janet Evanovich series. So of course I decided to read about Margie again and see what is going on. Last book we findout her husband is gay but trying not to be, they have two kids, and a pain in the butt cat.
Well this time around, her husband is trying to overcome his gayness, he thinks he can get by it, though he is sleeping in his office. Their daugheter is still acting like a dog, and is starting at a new school. To add into it Margie mom is coming to stay for a week. And she is vegan. Margie is still a Private Investigator with Peaches and due to what happened in the last book they now share a space with a waxing salon. NOw the new school is some Catholic school and the principal ends up dead, along with that Margie has to get a pot belly pig and her husband decides to join a retreat that swears to convert a man who thinks their gay into being straight.
Here's my issues, yes typing this review this sounds like a crazy and fun story. FOr the most part it is, but for some reason this time around Margie is driving me crazy, She wants to stay in her marriage due to the kids but does not see the damage her kids are suffering, second her mood and attitude about her daughters issues are driving me again crazy. Yes she is only 6, but I feel she was not really helping the situation as she thought lets bury it under the rug and pretend to be happy and the kids will be okay. Um not working their Margie. I realize i may be a little critical on Margie, but the different situations her daughter gets into and how Margie reacts I am just like banging my head on wall. I get that this situation is extremely difficult, but Margie your so much better and stronger than this. My other issue is theirs hints of a new romantic interest for Margie and she isn't even divorced or know what she is doing yet. Margie gotta love herself first. Also got to point out as healthy concious her mother is I do seem to like her mom. I think she is a good addition and may talk some reason into Margie.
Overall i'm hesitant to read the next book, and since their seems to be no more after the next one I feel maybe it is not written as well. But I guess we will see.
Well this time around, her husband is trying to overcome his gayness, he thinks he can get by it, though he is sleeping in his office. Their daugheter is still acting like a dog, and is starting at a new school. To add into it Margie mom is coming to stay for a week. And she is vegan. Margie is still a Private Investigator with Peaches and due to what happened in the last book they now share a space with a waxing salon. NOw the new school is some Catholic school and the principal ends up dead, along with that Margie has to get a pot belly pig and her husband decides to join a retreat that swears to convert a man who thinks their gay into being straight.
Here's my issues, yes typing this review this sounds like a crazy and fun story. FOr the most part it is, but for some reason this time around Margie is driving me crazy, She wants to stay in her marriage due to the kids but does not see the damage her kids are suffering, second her mood and attitude about her daughters issues are driving me again crazy. Yes she is only 6, but I feel she was not really helping the situation as she thought lets bury it under the rug and pretend to be happy and the kids will be okay. Um not working their Margie. I realize i may be a little critical on Margie, but the different situations her daughter gets into and how Margie reacts I am just like banging my head on wall. I get that this situation is extremely difficult, but Margie your so much better and stronger than this. My other issue is theirs hints of a new romantic interest for Margie and she isn't even divorced or know what she is doing yet. Margie gotta love herself first. Also got to point out as healthy concious her mother is I do seem to like her mom. I think she is a good addition and may talk some reason into Margie.
Overall i'm hesitant to read the next book, and since their seems to be no more after the next one I feel maybe it is not written as well. But I guess we will see.
July 4, 2017
This is book #2 of the Margie Peterson series. It's hilarious! I loved it! Margie was an ordinary housewife until she decided she needed a job and got one as a P.I. working for Peaches at Peachtree Investigations.
A late night phone call from her boss put Margie smack dab in the middle of a murder when Peaches asks her to help get a guy dressed as aquaman out of a pool in a young college girl's apartment (she has to put herself through college somehow). The victim turns out to be the headmaster of Holy Oaks, the snobby grade school that Margie's daughter Elsie attends (first grade). Margie's best friend Becky is looking good for the murder, mostly because Margie accidentally dropped her business card on the body. She has to scramble to find the real murderer and there are many in the running. Besides her too busy professional life, Margie's hippie mother has blown into town with her new age ideas. And Margie's husband Blake is trying to decide if he likes transvestites better than her.
I'm looking forward to book #3.
A late night phone call from her boss put Margie smack dab in the middle of a murder when Peaches asks her to help get a guy dressed as aquaman out of a pool in a young college girl's apartment (she has to put herself through college somehow). The victim turns out to be the headmaster of Holy Oaks, the snobby grade school that Margie's daughter Elsie attends (first grade). Margie's best friend Becky is looking good for the murder, mostly because Margie accidentally dropped her business card on the body. She has to scramble to find the real murderer and there are many in the running. Besides her too busy professional life, Margie's hippie mother has blown into town with her new age ideas. And Margie's husband Blake is trying to decide if he likes transvestites better than her.
I'm looking forward to book #3.
August 1, 2020
lEven Better Than Mother's Day Out
I enjoyed the first book in this series (Mother's Day Out) very much and looked forward to this sequel. And I wasn't disappointed. It was so good I could hardly put it down especially the last few chapters. Margie Peterson is a unique heroine -- a dependable hard working employee, a loyal friend, a loving mother and terribly disorganized. She gets into wild predicaments but always manages to get to school meetings or social gatherings albeit a few minutes late and perhaps somewhat under dressed or smelling less than daisy fresh. Whether working on the case of a kidnapped pregnant pig who swallowed her phone or helping her boss Peaches move a spandex clad dead school administrator, Margie perseveres and never lets anyone down. Except herself, Margie doesn't realize her own value as a private investigator or a friend or as a mother nor as a wife.
I've already bought Mother's Little Helper and am eager to read of Maggie's next adventures.
I enjoyed the first book in this series (Mother's Day Out) very much and looked forward to this sequel. And I wasn't disappointed. It was so good I could hardly put it down especially the last few chapters. Margie Peterson is a unique heroine -- a dependable hard working employee, a loyal friend, a loving mother and terribly disorganized. She gets into wild predicaments but always manages to get to school meetings or social gatherings albeit a few minutes late and perhaps somewhat under dressed or smelling less than daisy fresh. Whether working on the case of a kidnapped pregnant pig who swallowed her phone or helping her boss Peaches move a spandex clad dead school administrator, Margie perseveres and never lets anyone down. Except herself, Margie doesn't realize her own value as a private investigator or a friend or as a mother nor as a wife.
I've already bought Mother's Little Helper and am eager to read of Maggie's next adventures.
February 23, 2020
This is the second book in the Margie Peterson series. It was ok. It was much more of a stretch than the first one if you can believe that. At least the murder mystery part Margie was looking into was. I also didn’t like the mystery that much. It didn’t really interest me. The other stuff was the usual kind of outrageous. I did like the pig parts. What I don’t get or like is Margie’s insistence that her and her husband can get past his “issues”. I know she’s in denial and doesn’t really believe it but it makes her seem dumb and ignorant. Reading this I realize that I’m just tearing this book up but it’s not to be mean. I do enjoy the characters and the idea behind the series. I think this book may have just hit that second book slump. It’s a wacky cozy mystery series that’s not filled with romance. What’s not to like? 2 stars. Hoping for more in book three.
June 4, 2017
Margie Peterson is at it again. While dealing with her cheating husband who insists their marriage can survive his "phase" of being attracted to other men, she gets pulled into moving a dead body by her boss Peaches. It doesn't help that the dead man is the headmaster of her daughter's new private Catholic school. To add to her already crazy household, Margie's hippy Mother comes for a visit while her husband leaves town for a retreat to help him learn how to be attracted to women again.
Another funny, laugh out loud mystery by Karen MacInerney. I am so glad I took a chance on this hysterical series.
Another funny, laugh out loud mystery by Karen MacInerney. I am so glad I took a chance on this hysterical series.
December 21, 2022
Margie is a mother who is trying to hold it all together, two young children, a husband who is trying to deny that he's gay and a job as a private investigator.
When Peaches, Margie's PI boss, calls her in the middle of the night to call in a favour, Margie's stress levels kick up a few notches. On top of everything else, she is trying to fit in at her daughters new, exclusive school, new B&D knowledge, a visit to a strip club and her mother coming to stay with her vegan diet, chakra's and incense. Oh, and a pregnant pig called Bubba Sue!
A fun read that covers off many topics and some LOL moments.
When Peaches, Margie's PI boss, calls her in the middle of the night to call in a favour, Margie's stress levels kick up a few notches. On top of everything else, she is trying to fit in at her daughters new, exclusive school, new B&D knowledge, a visit to a strip club and her mother coming to stay with her vegan diet, chakra's and incense. Oh, and a pregnant pig called Bubba Sue!
A fun read that covers off many topics and some LOL moments.
December 18, 2022
Mother knows Best by Karen MacInerney is the 2nd book in the Margie Peterson Mysteries series. P.I. Margie Peterson is dealing with relationship issues and her daughter starting a new elite school, when she is called by her boss to help move the body of the school principal who was shot in a dominatrix's apartment. A fun cozy mystery with a lot going on. Margie has so much to deal with and I don't how she manages. I love that she is able to tackle all obstacles. Plenty of laughs and a very entertaining mystery.
November 6, 2025
Margie keeps getting mixed up in lots of trouble and her mom swoops in to town and throws out all the food that she deems unhealthy. Elsie is starting a new school and still wants to be thought of as a dog and she hates the new school. Margie and her boss help move a dead body from a friend’s house and it turns out to be the principal of the new school. Margie and Peaches and Becky do a lot of sleuthing and turn up bad things that are going on at the school. And then there’s the problems with her husband and their rocky marriage. On to book three!
July 6, 2017
So this is the first book that I have read by this author. The story was good and there were definitely funny parts, but it didn't exactly keep me wanting more. I was listening to this in my car and ended up putting my car in the shop for 5 days in the middle of listening to it...it didn't really bother me much. I will probably go back and read the first book and see how the characters were introduced. Maybe it will be better? Not sure but I am willing to try :-)
June 8, 2018
Quirky is a great word for these characters! Some real life situations help balance out the outlandish predicaments Margie gets herself into being a private investigator. I love whodunnits and this one kept me guessing. I have not read these books in the correct order; this is the second one I've read, but it did not make a difference. Fun read and kept me interested in what would happen next. Starting the next book with Margie very soon.
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