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A Quilting Mystery #4
Something's Knot Kosher
Funerals can be patchy affairs for Martha Rose and her close-knit circle of friends--especially in the case of a missing body. . .When Birdie Watson's husband Russell is killed during a bank robbery, Martha just wants to support her grieving friend. But en route to the burial plot in Oregon, Martha makes a harrowing discovery about the casket's contents--instead of Russell, she finds an unidentified man. Now Martha and her quilting klatch can't rest in peace until they unspool the truth behind the macabre mix up. . .
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2016
262 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
About the author
Mary Marks
16 books306 followersMary Marks became an award-winning quilter after an early retirement from her job in administration on the campus of the University of California Los Angeles. After twelve years of sewing twenty four/seven, she came up for a breath and started writing about some of the nearly one hundred quilts she’d created.
Then the writing bug bit her. She was off to the UCLA Extension Writer’s Program for classes. A love of reading mysteries led her to take a four-day mystery writing workshop where she discovered a new creative passion.
Her first novel, FORGET ME KNOT, was a finalist in the Malice Domestic Competition of 2011. Out of that success came the Martha Rose quilting mystery series.
In addition to her own writing, Mary reviews cozy mysteries for New York Journal of Books online.
Mary was born in Los Angeles and grew up in L.A. and the San Francisco Bay Area. She moved back to Southern California to attend UCLA and earned a BA in Anthropology. The next years were spent raising three children. She enrolled in the American Jewish University in L.A. and earned an MA in Public Administration and Management.
She held administrative positions at UCLA until a physical condition stemming from a bout with childhood polio forced her into early retirement. She moved to Israel for a year and returned to L.A. to start her adventures in quilting and murder.
To read more about Mary, check out this interview with Ember Living
You Tube Oral History Interview
Then the writing bug bit her. She was off to the UCLA Extension Writer’s Program for classes. A love of reading mysteries led her to take a four-day mystery writing workshop where she discovered a new creative passion.
Her first novel, FORGET ME KNOT, was a finalist in the Malice Domestic Competition of 2011. Out of that success came the Martha Rose quilting mystery series.
In addition to her own writing, Mary reviews cozy mysteries for New York Journal of Books online.
Mary was born in Los Angeles and grew up in L.A. and the San Francisco Bay Area. She moved back to Southern California to attend UCLA and earned a BA in Anthropology. The next years were spent raising three children. She enrolled in the American Jewish University in L.A. and earned an MA in Public Administration and Management.
She held administrative positions at UCLA until a physical condition stemming from a bout with childhood polio forced her into early retirement. She moved to Israel for a year and returned to L.A. to start her adventures in quilting and murder.
To read more about Mary, check out this interview with Ember Living
You Tube Oral History Interview
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
April 28, 2021
Martha Rose is shocked when she learns that her good friend Birdie Watson’s husband, Russell, was killed in a robbery at the bank he managed. Even more surprising are the questions the FBI and local police are asking Birdie. They are making it sound like Russell was a target. Martha and her friend Lucy are concerned that, if Russell was a target, someone might go after Birdie next, so when Birdie announces that she intends to take Russell’s body to his home in Oregon to be buried, they are happy to think she will be out of town. Being the supportive friends they are, they plan to go along. Martha can’t help but start nosing around, and what she learns about Birdie and Russell surprises her. But are the authorities right? Was Russell a target and not an innocent bystander?
Since Birdie is one of the main characters in the series, we’ve met Russell before, but he’s never spent much time on the page. Here, he’s dead on page one. Still, over the course of the book, we learn quite a bit about him, and he becomes much more fleshed out than he has been before. The main characters are also strong. Some of the supporting players are stereotypes, but some of those characters also provided some comic relief, so it’s hard to complain too much. The mystery itself is solid. The pacing lags a bit when the characters are on the road, but I still appreciated how the author was able to pull off a mystery with two different main settings without the book feeling too disjointed. There’s just enough talk of quilting to whet my appetite, and we get some tips for caring for a quilt at the end of the book. I continue to be glad I gave this series a chance, and I look forward to my next visit with the characters.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Since Birdie is one of the main characters in the series, we’ve met Russell before, but he’s never spent much time on the page. Here, he’s dead on page one. Still, over the course of the book, we learn quite a bit about him, and he becomes much more fleshed out than he has been before. The main characters are also strong. Some of the supporting players are stereotypes, but some of those characters also provided some comic relief, so it’s hard to complain too much. The mystery itself is solid. The pacing lags a bit when the characters are on the road, but I still appreciated how the author was able to pull off a mystery with two different main settings without the book feeling too disjointed. There’s just enough talk of quilting to whet my appetite, and we get some tips for caring for a quilt at the end of the book. I continue to be glad I gave this series a chance, and I look forward to my next visit with the characters.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
November 6, 2016
This is definitely my favorite of the series so far. I thought the characters were great in this one. Each had their own voice and we got some good character development. And the best part, for me, . The plot itself was interesting and had plenty of twists and turns. My only problem with this one is the same problem I have with the series as a whole: I find it hard to believe this ladies are as old as they are suppose to be. Sometimes when reading it seems like we are following around a bunch of 30-somethings, not 50-70 year old ladies. When their ages are addressed, it's jarring because it just feels so...off. But really, that's a small complaint. I just pretend they are younger and keep reading.
So, should someone who has never read the other books in the series pick this one up? Well...normally I say no. And, I think you'll miss some of the romantic angst that is addressed, but I don't think that's really a bad thing. And, since this is my favorite in the series, I'm gonna say, yes. Pick this one up, even if you haven't read the others. I think that's the first time I've said that. I think that if you like cozy mysteries, you should give this one a try.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
So, should someone who has never read the other books in the series pick this one up? Well...normally I say no. And, I think you'll miss some of the romantic angst that is addressed, but I don't think that's really a bad thing. And, since this is my favorite in the series, I'm gonna say, yes. Pick this one up, even if you haven't read the others. I think that's the first time I've said that. I think that if you like cozy mysteries, you should give this one a try.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
May 18, 2016
This book was wonderful. I love to read books with a craft theme. Although I don't quilt, I do enjoy reading about it.
This book made me laugh, cry and giggle.
The friendship and love that the ladies have for each other is deep and unconditional.
In this book, Birdie is crushed with news that will change her life. It is a time to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones.
As they travel, secrets are unleashed and the friends have quite a few wild adventures.
You won't want to miss this great cozy mystery.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
This book made me laugh, cry and giggle.
The friendship and love that the ladies have for each other is deep and unconditional.
In this book, Birdie is crushed with news that will change her life. It is a time to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones.
As they travel, secrets are unleashed and the friends have quite a few wild adventures.
You won't want to miss this great cozy mystery.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
June 30, 2018
When a bank robbery goes seriously wrong Birdie Watson finds herself suddenly widowed as Russell was killed by the bank robber. Whilst preparing for the funeral it comes out that Russell was gay and had been living (with the assent of Birdie) a double life for over 20 years. Jazz Fletcher (the boyfriend/fiance) joins Birdie, Lucy, Martha and Arthur the German Shepherd on the car journey to bury Russell, when the driver of the hearse suffers a heart attack Martha takes over driving it and then she is run off the road. This spills the coffin out and there was more than one corpse in there!
Now the FBI are helping out, Birdie is trying to decipher a diary of codes she found, Jazz is trying to come to terms with everything, oh and Birdie's ex from the commune is back on the scene. Can Martha find out what happened and why and allow Jazz and Birdie to have some peace and closure?
Wow! This story took me round the houses and back again, Mary Marks has done it again, whilst there was less quilting in the one it was more than made up with the back story to Birdie, one that NO-ONE would have imagined in a hundred years (and one that makes me wish that I knew Birdie in real life as she would be a treat to talk to). Roll on number 5!
Now the FBI are helping out, Birdie is trying to decipher a diary of codes she found, Jazz is trying to come to terms with everything, oh and Birdie's ex from the commune is back on the scene. Can Martha find out what happened and why and allow Jazz and Birdie to have some peace and closure?
Wow! This story took me round the houses and back again, Mary Marks has done it again, whilst there was less quilting in the one it was more than made up with the back story to Birdie, one that NO-ONE would have imagined in a hundred years (and one that makes me wish that I knew Birdie in real life as she would be a treat to talk to). Roll on number 5!
January 17, 2021
I enjoyed this next book in the series, although perhaps not quite as much as the previous ones. The mystery was good but a little obscure. Again liked the quilting references and tips. Very genuine.
July 6, 2016
Princess Fuzzypants here:
If you are looking for a zany romp of a book, ideal for summer reading, this might be it. The murder of the husband of Martha's quilting friend, Birdie, sets off a road trip to take the body 800 miles to be buried in a family plot. Accompanying a corpse through three states ought to be hard enough. Add in a lecherous and sickly driver of the hearse and a crazed Swedish rapper stalking one of the friends and you have a recipe for trouble.
Before they set off, the three friends are faced with a few surprises. First, the gay fiance of the deceased joins their merry band. Yes. Russell was married to Birdie. It is quite a story.
Then they discover a cache of money and bearer bonds in a safe. A coded notebook also resided in the safe. Does it hold the answer to the murder?
So while the friends are on their quest, they are also trying to decipher the code. If you think this sounds wild and crazy, it is.
Mind you, despite some over the top characters, they still rang true. The story could zip around the edges of farce yet stayed firmly planted in the believable. It was a fast and fun read.
It also had three good animal characters: Arthur, the retired police-dog, Zsa Zsa, the Maltese who both go on the road trip and Thumper, Martha's cat who stayed home. In fact, if it was not for Thumper having a case of the "zoomies", Martha might have been murdered in her bed by the villain.
For all of the above reasons, I give it the full five purrs and two paws up.
If you are looking for a zany romp of a book, ideal for summer reading, this might be it. The murder of the husband of Martha's quilting friend, Birdie, sets off a road trip to take the body 800 miles to be buried in a family plot. Accompanying a corpse through three states ought to be hard enough. Add in a lecherous and sickly driver of the hearse and a crazed Swedish rapper stalking one of the friends and you have a recipe for trouble.
Before they set off, the three friends are faced with a few surprises. First, the gay fiance of the deceased joins their merry band. Yes. Russell was married to Birdie. It is quite a story.
Then they discover a cache of money and bearer bonds in a safe. A coded notebook also resided in the safe. Does it hold the answer to the murder?
So while the friends are on their quest, they are also trying to decipher the code. If you think this sounds wild and crazy, it is.
Mind you, despite some over the top characters, they still rang true. The story could zip around the edges of farce yet stayed firmly planted in the believable. It was a fast and fun read.
It also had three good animal characters: Arthur, the retired police-dog, Zsa Zsa, the Maltese who both go on the road trip and Thumper, Martha's cat who stayed home. In fact, if it was not for Thumper having a case of the "zoomies", Martha might have been murdered in her bed by the villain.
For all of the above reasons, I give it the full five purrs and two paws up.
July 26, 2016
Ms Marks has given us another enjoyable cozy. Poor Birdie lost her husband Russell in a bank robbery. The fact that Russell was leading a double life was known to Birdie and was accepted by her. Russell had always said that he wanted to be near his parents in Oregon, so Birdie talks Martha and Lucy into making a road trip of it and follow a hearse, with Russel's remains in it. Imagine 3 elderly ladies, a German Shepherd named Arthur, and a fairly new friend, Jazz, who was also a friend of Russell's, all in one car, following the hearse. Hippies, communes, dead husband, dead stranger who no one knew was riding along. This book has all of it and more.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
July 15, 2016
Much can change over 50 years but the details revealed in this book caught me by surprise. This "over the hill gang" of beyond middle aged quilters can't seem to stay out of trouble. Between a bank robbery resulting in murder, a disasterous road trip to honor final wishes, new friendships made, and flaring up old emotions, the twists and surprises keep on coming! The books ends with so many possibilities for what could come next.
As with Mary's other crafty cozies we get bonus information. This time about caring for your precious quilts.
I enjoyed my time with the ladies and dogs and look foward to finding out how their future unfolds.
I did receive a copy of this book to review.
As with Mary's other crafty cozies we get bonus information. This time about caring for your precious quilts.
I enjoyed my time with the ladies and dogs and look foward to finding out how their future unfolds.
I did receive a copy of this book to review.
June 20, 2016
This is the first book I've read in this series and the first one with an older cast of characters, which is nice.
I worked out the mystery early on and then just wanted to see how long it took for the main character to work it out.
The characters are fun but some seemed a little over judgemental at times but that was eventually sorted. Will be keeping my eye out for the rest of the series because I prefer to read series in order, I'm crazy that way!
*Huge thanks to Mary Marks, Kensington Books and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review*
I worked out the mystery early on and then just wanted to see how long it took for the main character to work it out.
The characters are fun but some seemed a little over judgemental at times but that was eventually sorted. Will be keeping my eye out for the rest of the series because I prefer to read series in order, I'm crazy that way!
*Huge thanks to Mary Marks, Kensington Books and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review*
June 19, 2016
I would like to thank Kensington Books for providing me with a free ARC of this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an open and honest review.
Firstly, I will openly state here and now I am ‘A Quilting Mystery’ fan. I got given the opportunity to review book three of this series last year, loved it so much I went out and bought (then quickly read) books one and two and freely admit to doing a little happy dance in my Reviewer chair last week when I got the email stating I had been approved to read book four – ‘Something’s Knot Kosher’!
I have not been paid to say that, in fact I’m the only one who has paid when buying the first two books so my bias is all mine, and not one I have been asked to have.
And, in saying that – I loved this book! A fantastic follow on from the other three books and not your everyday cosy crime or mystery tale. Yes it has all the same factors – friends, hand crafts, crime, adventure, defeating the bad guys, solving the case without the cops - but I don’t know how Ms Marks does it, but she adds a fantastic little quirkiness to these books that does make them stand out above the standard American cosy crime/ mystery. So, maybe it’s a top shelf, gold plated cosy crime? ;-)
Though I do feel I should warn people now this book should not be read as a stand-alone. I mean, I’m sure it could be… but the depth and richness, background knowledge and general cosiness would be lost if you did. Please, go read them in order – your life will fuller for doing so!
The only other minor quibble I have is that I found the book’s formatting a little shabby and occasionally the wrong name was used or spelt incorrectly. However! I was given an ARC and they are rarely the finished, edited to perfection piece, and so I will not mark it down for that. I was just a little put off by it… but if I will be impatient and grab an ARC rather than wait for the final product – the fault lies completely with me!
The “girls” are off on a road trip in this story, a sad one at that. Martha is still a zany, sharp minded cookie I’d love to adopt as a quirky Aunt and we not only meet up with some of the other regulars, but appear to maybe meet some new ones. And just because it’s a road trip, don’t think - how boring. As it’s not! It’s non-stop adventures of the bizarre kind!
I seriously can’t wait to get my hands on book five! Now to see who I need to make sad puppy eyes at to get me one! ;-)
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would, but honestly only after they’d read the first three books. Yes it could be read and possibly even enjoyed as a stand-alone… but don’t do it! You will get so such more love and enjoyment out of reading all of them in order! You have been warned.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Just try and stop me! I am a seriously devoted fan to this series now and get major book hangovers when I am done… the books just don’t last me long enough! Write more! Please?
In summary: A great follow on to an already brilliant LA based cosy crime/ mystery series. An enjoyable read on its own, but all the better to be the next instalment in the life of Martha and her quilting friends. A series well worth a read!
Firstly, I will openly state here and now I am ‘A Quilting Mystery’ fan. I got given the opportunity to review book three of this series last year, loved it so much I went out and bought (then quickly read) books one and two and freely admit to doing a little happy dance in my Reviewer chair last week when I got the email stating I had been approved to read book four – ‘Something’s Knot Kosher’!
I have not been paid to say that, in fact I’m the only one who has paid when buying the first two books so my bias is all mine, and not one I have been asked to have.
And, in saying that – I loved this book! A fantastic follow on from the other three books and not your everyday cosy crime or mystery tale. Yes it has all the same factors – friends, hand crafts, crime, adventure, defeating the bad guys, solving the case without the cops - but I don’t know how Ms Marks does it, but she adds a fantastic little quirkiness to these books that does make them stand out above the standard American cosy crime/ mystery. So, maybe it’s a top shelf, gold plated cosy crime? ;-)
Though I do feel I should warn people now this book should not be read as a stand-alone. I mean, I’m sure it could be… but the depth and richness, background knowledge and general cosiness would be lost if you did. Please, go read them in order – your life will fuller for doing so!
The only other minor quibble I have is that I found the book’s formatting a little shabby and occasionally the wrong name was used or spelt incorrectly. However! I was given an ARC and they are rarely the finished, edited to perfection piece, and so I will not mark it down for that. I was just a little put off by it… but if I will be impatient and grab an ARC rather than wait for the final product – the fault lies completely with me!
The “girls” are off on a road trip in this story, a sad one at that. Martha is still a zany, sharp minded cookie I’d love to adopt as a quirky Aunt and we not only meet up with some of the other regulars, but appear to maybe meet some new ones. And just because it’s a road trip, don’t think - how boring. As it’s not! It’s non-stop adventures of the bizarre kind!
I seriously can’t wait to get my hands on book five! Now to see who I need to make sad puppy eyes at to get me one! ;-)
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would, but honestly only after they’d read the first three books. Yes it could be read and possibly even enjoyed as a stand-alone… but don’t do it! You will get so such more love and enjoyment out of reading all of them in order! You have been warned.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Just try and stop me! I am a seriously devoted fan to this series now and get major book hangovers when I am done… the books just don’t last me long enough! Write more! Please?
In summary: A great follow on to an already brilliant LA based cosy crime/ mystery series. An enjoyable read on its own, but all the better to be the next instalment in the life of Martha and her quilting friends. A series well worth a read!
July 9, 2016
Something’s Knot Kosher by Mary Marks is the fourth book in A Quilting Mystery series. Martha Rose and her friends (Bertie Watson and Lucy Mondella) get together every Tuesday for a day of quilting in Encino, California for the last sixteen years. Bertie and her husband, Russell have been together for 50 years. Russell is at work at First Encino Bank when there is a robbery and he is shot (was it random or intentional). Bertie needs her friends help (and their comfort) planning Russell’s funeral. Bertie gets a call from the funeral home requesting her assistance. Someone else has shown up and wants input. Soon Jazz Fletcher (and his dog, Zsa Zsa) shows up on Bertie’s doorstep. Turns out there was more to Russell and Bertie’s life than anyone knew. Russell was gay but he kept it hidden because of his position at the bank. Bertie agrees to work with Jazz on Russell’s funeral. Russell had requested to be buried in McMinnville, Oregon (him home town). Normally the body would be flown to the city, but Birdie will not take an airplane or a train. So it is arranged that a driver will take them to McMinnville. The group will travel in a car behind the hearse (Lucy, Martha, and Jazz are going with her). They take along a red journal they had found in the house safe. It is written in code and Martha believes it is important. Before the group departs they find out that the robbery may not have been random (nor Russell’s death). And then someone tries to break into Bertie’s house. What is going on? During the trip someone attacks the car and they get run off the road. Unfortunately, the casket pops out of the back of the hearse and falls open. They rush over to find a stranger in the casket (Russell is in there as well). Who is this man and how did he get in the casket? Martha Rose is determined to get answers for her friend. Can Martha stitch together the clues?
Something’s Knot Kosher was delightful. It was entertaining to read (I have to admit that I even laughed a few times). The book contains engaging characters (Jazz is a riot) and a complex mystery (my favorite type). I loved following the clues. Something’s Knot Kosher shows you really never know a person—not completely. Bertie and Russell’s past will certainly surprise you. I give Something’s Knot Kosher 4.5 out of 5 stars (since I was able to solve the mystery before I was halfway through the book). While Something’s Knot Kosher is the fourth book in the series, you can read as a stand-alone. The author did a good job of bringing the reader up-to-date without boring someone who has read the other books in the series. I look forward to reading the next book in A Quilting Mystery series.
I received a complimentary copy of Something’s Knot Kosher in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Something’s Knot Kosher was delightful. It was entertaining to read (I have to admit that I even laughed a few times). The book contains engaging characters (Jazz is a riot) and a complex mystery (my favorite type). I loved following the clues. Something’s Knot Kosher shows you really never know a person—not completely. Bertie and Russell’s past will certainly surprise you. I give Something’s Knot Kosher 4.5 out of 5 stars (since I was able to solve the mystery before I was halfway through the book). While Something’s Knot Kosher is the fourth book in the series, you can read as a stand-alone. The author did a good job of bringing the reader up-to-date without boring someone who has read the other books in the series. I look forward to reading the next book in A Quilting Mystery series.
I received a complimentary copy of Something’s Knot Kosher in exchange for an honest and fair review.
July 26, 2016
Martha is nothing less than supportive when she is informed that Birdie's husband has been murdered in the bank he manages. A robbery gone wrong according to the FBI, Martha isn't quite as sure. Before she can truly dive into solving this mystery, though, Martha joins Birdy, and Lucy, along with Jazz - a new character to the group - to bury Russel in his family's Oregon burial plot.
Along the way, information about a mysterious ledger, a Swedish rapper, and what really happened at the bank become center stage. After having issues with the hearse driver, Martha and the group end up in a less than favorable situation, especially when the local police don't believe their wild tales. It takes calling in the cavalry to smooth things out.
While I didn't feel Book 4 was as robust as previous books in the series, I still enjoyed the story. We found out more about Birdie's past and her relationship with Russel. This plot point actually clears up some questions that Martha has had about them since she and Birdie became friends. The interactions between the women are realistic and makes the reader feel like they, too, are part of the group.
Mary certainly knows how to tell a story. Her writing style is wonderful and fluid. The book is very easy to get lost in - you won't want to put it down once you start. The entire novel is engaging; never a dull moment. Birdie and Lucy are wonderful friends to Martha, bringing another dimension to the story. They do quilt things together, whether it's actually sewing or visiting local quilt shops - a time to be focused on something other than murders, men, or other characters.
Mary Marks does a wonderful job building up the mystery and not disclosing clues to the identity of the suspects early. The truth of the situation is revealed at the perfect time, after sending the reader on several wild goose chases. Danger builds as the mystery unfolds - and there are actually several story lines that take place. We also get another glimpse into Martha's love life that may or may not have you shaking your head.
Review copy courtesy of the publisher, at no cost, in exchange for an hones review.
Along the way, information about a mysterious ledger, a Swedish rapper, and what really happened at the bank become center stage. After having issues with the hearse driver, Martha and the group end up in a less than favorable situation, especially when the local police don't believe their wild tales. It takes calling in the cavalry to smooth things out.
While I didn't feel Book 4 was as robust as previous books in the series, I still enjoyed the story. We found out more about Birdie's past and her relationship with Russel. This plot point actually clears up some questions that Martha has had about them since she and Birdie became friends. The interactions between the women are realistic and makes the reader feel like they, too, are part of the group.
Mary certainly knows how to tell a story. Her writing style is wonderful and fluid. The book is very easy to get lost in - you won't want to put it down once you start. The entire novel is engaging; never a dull moment. Birdie and Lucy are wonderful friends to Martha, bringing another dimension to the story. They do quilt things together, whether it's actually sewing or visiting local quilt shops - a time to be focused on something other than murders, men, or other characters.
Mary Marks does a wonderful job building up the mystery and not disclosing clues to the identity of the suspects early. The truth of the situation is revealed at the perfect time, after sending the reader on several wild goose chases. Danger builds as the mystery unfolds - and there are actually several story lines that take place. We also get another glimpse into Martha's love life that may or may not have you shaking your head.
Review copy courtesy of the publisher, at no cost, in exchange for an hones review.
June 5, 2016
Something’s Knot Kosher is the fourth book in Mary Marks Quilting Mystery series. This is the first book I’ve read written by this author and I enjoyed her writing style. Even though I haven't read the previous books, the author provided enough background information that I had no problem jumping right into it. This book is well plotted and has well-developed characters. Ms. Marks’ witty and humorous writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. I recommend it to others who enjoy cozy mysteries.
Martha Rose, Lucy Mondello, and Birdie Watson are friends who get together once a week to quilt together.
Russell Watson, Birdie’s husband, is a banker who is gunned down during a bank robbery at his bank. The FBI is handling the case because it involves a bank robbery, but Martha’s ex-boyfriend, LAPD Homicide Detective Arlo Beavers, takes an interest in the case. Martha and Lucy learn Birdie has been harboring many secrets from them for the sixteen years they’ve been friends. The first secret they learn is that Russell is gay and is engaged to Jazz Fletcher-Watson. Since Birdie doesn’t fly and is afraid to ride a train, the group, along with Jazz’s adorable Maltese, Zsa Zsa, decides to drive from Los Angeles to Oregon in behind Lucy’s Cadillac, following the hearse transporting Russell for burial. Arlo is concerned for their safety and allows his German Shepherd, Arthur, to travel with them for protection. The hearse driver becomes ill and Martha ends up driving it, only to be forced off the road by Jazz’s stalker. The accident causes the casket to fall out of the hearse and open revealing a second body in the casket with Russell.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
Martha Rose, Lucy Mondello, and Birdie Watson are friends who get together once a week to quilt together.
Russell Watson, Birdie’s husband, is a banker who is gunned down during a bank robbery at his bank. The FBI is handling the case because it involves a bank robbery, but Martha’s ex-boyfriend, LAPD Homicide Detective Arlo Beavers, takes an interest in the case. Martha and Lucy learn Birdie has been harboring many secrets from them for the sixteen years they’ve been friends. The first secret they learn is that Russell is gay and is engaged to Jazz Fletcher-Watson. Since Birdie doesn’t fly and is afraid to ride a train, the group, along with Jazz’s adorable Maltese, Zsa Zsa, decides to drive from Los Angeles to Oregon in behind Lucy’s Cadillac, following the hearse transporting Russell for burial. Arlo is concerned for their safety and allows his German Shepherd, Arthur, to travel with them for protection. The hearse driver becomes ill and Martha ends up driving it, only to be forced off the road by Jazz’s stalker. The accident causes the casket to fall out of the hearse and open revealing a second body in the casket with Russell.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
July 4, 2016
I love this series by Mary Marks. The quilting information is a bonus feature.
At the end, the information on the care of quilts is helpful for anyone who owns a quilt.
Martha Rose's fibromyalgia won't get in her way when it comes to being there to support her best friends Lucy Mondello and Birdie Watson, her quilting BFFs for 16 years.
When Birdie's husband Russell is murdered during a bank robbery, Lucy leaves her own family trauma to be the driver of the ladies as they follow Russell's hearse all the way to McMinnion Oregon, a three day drive filled with drama and fun. Martha has accompanied Birdie to the bank and helped with the discovery of Jazz, Russell's intended fiancee.
Birdie may be 76 but there is life in her yet and her youthful adventures with Russell and his brother Denver make for a revealing story to her friends as they join together in supporting Birdie.
Martha's friendship with an FBI agent aids Lucy and provides Martha with relationship reality check when it comes to Arlo and Crusher.
I received a loan copy of this ebook through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
At the end, the information on the care of quilts is helpful for anyone who owns a quilt.
Martha Rose's fibromyalgia won't get in her way when it comes to being there to support her best friends Lucy Mondello and Birdie Watson, her quilting BFFs for 16 years.
When Birdie's husband Russell is murdered during a bank robbery, Lucy leaves her own family trauma to be the driver of the ladies as they follow Russell's hearse all the way to McMinnion Oregon, a three day drive filled with drama and fun. Martha has accompanied Birdie to the bank and helped with the discovery of Jazz, Russell's intended fiancee.
Birdie may be 76 but there is life in her yet and her youthful adventures with Russell and his brother Denver make for a revealing story to her friends as they join together in supporting Birdie.
Martha's friendship with an FBI agent aids Lucy and provides Martha with relationship reality check when it comes to Arlo and Crusher.
I received a loan copy of this ebook through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2016
Martha Rose and her friends Lucy and Birdie are quilting buddies. Birdie's husband, Russell Watson, is a straight-laced banker who is killed during a bank robbery at his bank. Birdie and her friends decide to drive in a caravan with the hearse carrying her husband's body from Los Angeles to Oregon for burial. The reader finds out that Birdie and Russell met in a hippie commune in the 1960's in Oregon. You will also be treated to the characters, Jazz and Arlo. The trip to Oregon is a rip-roaring time! I loved the humor and the information throughout the book about quilting. The characters were vivid and amusing and the story also included some darling canine characters. The plot was sharp and the dialogue witty. I loved the writing style of author, Mary Marks. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a cozy mystery. It was very enjoyable to read.
Something's Knot Kosher by Mary Marks will be published June 28, 2016. I was given this egalley from the publisher, Kensington Publishing, Inc., in exchange for a honest review.
Something's Knot Kosher by Mary Marks will be published June 28, 2016. I was given this egalley from the publisher, Kensington Publishing, Inc., in exchange for a honest review.
June 30, 2016
This is a great book; this is the fourth book in the A Quilting Mystery series written by Mary Marks. Funerals can be patchy affairs for Martha Rose and her close-knit circle of friends, especially in the case of a missing body. When Birdie Watson's husband Russell is killed during a bank robbery, Martha just wants to support her grieving friend. But en route to the burial plot in Oregon, Martha makes a harrowing discovery about the casket's contents, instead of Russell, she finds an unidentified man. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great 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.
June 28, 2016
Martha Rose is shocked when she learned that Birdie Watson's husband has been shot in a bank robbery. Martha and Lucy rally around Birdie. As it is a bank robbery, the FBI is in charge. Arlo is around helping the FBI. He wants to resume the romantic relationship with Martha. Birdie and Russell's past is revealed. Birdie wants to take her husband's back to his hometown for burial. Arthur is along for the trip. The journey there is exciting and adventurous including an extra body in the casket and an accident on the freeway. What happens in McMinnville will amuse you.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 2, 2016
Libro "movimentato": diversi sospetti, almeno fino a quando non diventa chiaro il movente dell'assassisinio; la protagonista e i suoi amici (al gruppo delle tre quilters si aggiunge quello che diventerà chiaramente un suo nuovo membro) si spostano dalla California all'Oregon; la vita amorosa della protagonista è ancora in alto mare (e odio il fatto che sia ancora indecisa fra due persone).
Nonostante l'età più avanzata della protagonista (preferisco le giovani o mie coetanee), questa serie continua ad essere interessante.
Nonostante l'età più avanzata della protagonista (preferisco le giovani o mie coetanee), questa serie continua ad essere interessante.
June 24, 2016
enjoyed the crafting aspects of this as well as the fact that the characters were "mature". This is a quick read and while you'll figure out who the bad guy is pretty quick, it's enjoyable to watch them do the same. Martha and Bertie are entertaining. I had not read the earlier books in this series and sometimes felt as though I would have benefited from doing so but on balance, this was a decent way to spend an afternoon. You will like this if you enjoy cozies where you learn a little something new (for me, it was quilting.) Thanks to netgalley for the arc.
June 28, 2016
Clever mystery which includes a road trip from Los Angeles to Oregon. Three ladies of retirement age solve the mystery while endangering their lives in the process. Since I have driven most of their route, it was entertaining to "ride" along. The ladies are an interesting mix of friends brought together by their love of quilting. The publisher provided a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Entertaining and engaging series. There are romance, dogs, and a cat included.
June 30, 2016
I enjoyed Marks' latest outing, which had the advantage of taking her characters and putting them on a dangerous road trip. We learned a lot about some of the supporting characters, and the events of the book shook up the series in a pleasant and surprising way.
**I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.**
**I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.**
June 29, 2016
The actual mystery part was fine. I didn't guess who it could be until almost the end. But I don't like the drug use or the new character that was introduced. Reminder to self: didn't love the last one in this series or this one. Done with this author. I don't like the kind of lifestyle that is being promoted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2016
Fun summer romp!
If you're looking for a great read to relax with then, Eureka!!!! You have found it here. I usually read a lot of history, classic, or fairly serious topics. But, then I found Mary Marks. Girl, I want to hang out with you. Interesting,, seriously funny, very readable books!
If you're looking for a great read to relax with then, Eureka!!!! You have found it here. I usually read a lot of history, classic, or fairly serious topics. But, then I found Mary Marks. Girl, I want to hang out with you. Interesting,, seriously funny, very readable books!
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January 27, 2018This series is tricky for me. I like most of the characters, and the plots are fun cozy mysteries. What I don't care for is the authors bias and her using the books as a social advocacy platform. I read cozy mysteries to relax and unplug, I don't need a dose of moralizing mixed in.
June 23, 2016
I really want to say that I like this book. But, I found that it just wasn't for me. While the characters are fantastic, I found myself having a hard time getting into the plot.
August 2, 2017
Title: Something's Knot Kosher - Quilting Mystery Book 4
Author: Mary Marks
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 6-28-2016
Pages: 288
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub-Genre: Crafts & Hobbies; Amateur Sleuths; Cozy Mystery;
ISBN: 9781496701800
ASIN: B0165HUVWS
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
In "Something's Knot Kosher" we learn more about Birdie as she learns more about her husband Russell who was killed during a robbery. As they hit the road on a journey for answers they question whether or not Russell was an innocent bystander or targeted for murder. We also meet a new character whom I hope to learn more of in future books, Jazz.
The characters are believable and fun to read about. The book has some humorous dialog and moves at a quick pace. You will not want to put it down. I would recommend reading the series from the beginning in order to better understand the dynamics of the ladies friendship. Although you could read it alone but might have a few moments of difficulty. The book is still well written and a fun read either way.
My rating of "Something's Knot Kosher - Quilting Mystery Book 4" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0165HUVWS/...
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Author: Mary Marks
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 6-28-2016
Pages: 288
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub-Genre: Crafts & Hobbies; Amateur Sleuths; Cozy Mystery;
ISBN: 9781496701800
ASIN: B0165HUVWS
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
In "Something's Knot Kosher" we learn more about Birdie as she learns more about her husband Russell who was killed during a robbery. As they hit the road on a journey for answers they question whether or not Russell was an innocent bystander or targeted for murder. We also meet a new character whom I hope to learn more of in future books, Jazz.
The characters are believable and fun to read about. The book has some humorous dialog and moves at a quick pace. You will not want to put it down. I would recommend reading the series from the beginning in order to better understand the dynamics of the ladies friendship. Although you could read it alone but might have a few moments of difficulty. The book is still well written and a fun read either way.
My rating of "Something's Knot Kosher - Quilting Mystery Book 4" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0165HUVWS/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/some...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Someth...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/some...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
March 14, 2022
I’m really getting addicted to and invested in this series… And of course the back-and-forth between Arlo and Yossi has been a slow moving tennis match. Anyway in this particular book we get to watch somebody else’s love life get interesting for a change. Some of Bertie‘s issues have been explained as the death of her husband brings a lot of things into the light. We got to meet some new characters and go on a road trip. As usual there was a lot of humor and interesting side plots like Lucy‘s son and his wife as well as Rudy’s ex lover. But you’ll see all of that in time. The story really kept you guessing about the motive for the murder and I’ll have to admit that I didn’t correctly guess the motive and such for the killing. But still it was a good story and I enjoyed following it quite a bit. Looking forward to reading more books in the series.
September 18, 2020
The 4th book in this great cozy mystery series involving 3 quilters, and this time the story includes the murder of one of their husband's; it also includes a road trip and reconnection of a friendship many years old!
Birdie's husband, Russell is killed at the bank, it soon becomes clear that it's murder so the quilters take on the job of finding the murderer. The FBI are also involved, and there's a link between the FBI agent and Martha's ex-boyfriend.
The girls become aware of a secret which Birdie has kept for all the years she and Russell were married, as a result a 4th member of the quilt team is recruited!
Will Martha escape unhurt this time, wil she have to choose between Arlo and Crusher?
I really enjoy these books, hard to put down once started! I'm looking forward to the next book now...
Birdie's husband, Russell is killed at the bank, it soon becomes clear that it's murder so the quilters take on the job of finding the murderer. The FBI are also involved, and there's a link between the FBI agent and Martha's ex-boyfriend.
The girls become aware of a secret which Birdie has kept for all the years she and Russell were married, as a result a 4th member of the quilt team is recruited!
Will Martha escape unhurt this time, wil she have to choose between Arlo and Crusher?
I really enjoy these books, hard to put down once started! I'm looking forward to the next book now...
March 22, 2021
Once again, I really liked the mystery. The road trip dragged out a bit too long, but I really like Jazz, a new character introduced in this book. I hope he sticks around. As usual, I hate the whole "love" story. Martha Rose needs to ditch both Arlo and Crusher and get some counseling to figure out how she keeps "accidentally" falling into bed with one or the other of them. That excuse is lame enough for teens. It doesn't work at all for somebody her age. It wan't an accident. (As Dr. Phil says when his guests use that excuse, "I hate it when that happens!") She made a choice. She needs to own it. She also needs to get her own dog.
May 30, 2017
When Birdie's husband of many years is killed during a bank robbery, her quilter friends Martha and Lucy agree to help her get his body to Oregon, where he wants to be buried. They also learn the truth about Birdie's loveless marriage when the dead man's gay lover appears in their life. Jazz insists on joining them on their journey, which grows more complicated when a second body is found in the coffin. Meanwhile, Martha is torn between police detective Arlo, whom she used to date, and Yossi, who has been out of touch for five months now. Martha also has some odd ideas about being Kosher, which probably will not bother others as much as it does me.
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