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A Quilting Mystery #5
Knot What You Think
“A joyous romp with a special appeal to quilters and devotees of delicatessens” from the author of Something’s Knot Kosher (Kirkus Reviews). The newest member of Martha’s close-knit quilting circle has an eye for couture. But when the designer’s fingerprints are found blanketing a crime scene, Martha must prove that he didn’t have a hand in homicide . . . Martha Rose is alarmed by the discovery of Dolleen Doyle’s dead body, especially when evidence suggests a fellow quilter committed the crime. Set on clearing her pal, Martha searches for answers—but with ties to a convicted fraudster’s stolen millions and a secret office room, the victim’s past raises even more questions. As Martha inches towards the culprit, she learns that wrapping the case up—and living to baste another square—will be trickier than she ever imagined . . . Praise for the Quilting Mysteries “What’s knot to love? Mary Marks has crafted another winner stitched together with humor and heart—Martha Rose is one gutsy lady.” —Rochelle Staab, national bestselling author of the Mind for Murder Mysteries “Mary Marks had me on pins and needles and wanting to wrap myself up in a warm quilt while reading her cozy debut!” —Lee Hollis, author of the Hayley Powell Food & Cocktails Mysteries “A pleasurable and satisfying addition to any quilting mystery fan’s reading list. Recommend to those who cannot get enough of Terri Thayer, Elizabeth Craig, or Earlene Fowler.” —Library Journal
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2017
120 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Mary Marks
16 books305 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 81 reviews
January 12, 2022
Martha Rose is looking forward to a typical Tuesday quilting session with her friends until Jazz, the latest member of the group, shows up. As Jazz describes his morning, everyone begins to worry about the friend he was trying to see earlier in the morning. When they go to investigate, they find the body of Dolleen Doyle on her kitchen floor. Dolleen is the second wife of a man currently in jail for running a Ponzi scheme. With the police looking at Jazz as their prime suspect, Martha begins to investigate. Can she find the real killer?
Those familiar with the series will know what to expect here, and they won’t be disappointed. The plot is complex with several twists before Martha pieces the clues together. I do wish we hadn’t had the scenes with the psychic, but that’s a minor complaint. I enjoy the characters since they are different for a cozy series, and I appreciate how their lives are evolving as the series progresses. The suspects are just as sharp and interesting. While the Los Angeles setting is unusual for a cozy, as a native, I enjoy it, and the book still feels cozy. There’s a nice dose of humor as well, and I can’t wait to see how what happens next to Martha after the way this book ended. If you are looking for a fun cozy series, this is definitely one to check out.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Those familiar with the series will know what to expect here, and they won’t be disappointed. The plot is complex with several twists before Martha pieces the clues together. I do wish we hadn’t had the scenes with the psychic, but that’s a minor complaint. I enjoy the characters since they are different for a cozy series, and I appreciate how their lives are evolving as the series progresses. The suspects are just as sharp and interesting. While the Los Angeles setting is unusual for a cozy, as a native, I enjoy it, and the book still feels cozy. There’s a nice dose of humor as well, and I can’t wait to see how what happens next to Martha after the way this book ended. If you are looking for a fun cozy series, this is definitely one to check out.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 13, 2018
4 stelle e mezza
Ho apprezzato questo libro sia per la storia gialla (stavolta non avevo proprio capito chi fosse il colpevole) che per l'evolversi della vita della protagonista. Devo dire che quest'ultima è più vicina a me per età che tante altre protagoniste di cozy mysteries: se ben ricordo, ha più di 50 anni e solitamente apprezzo le più giovani, che in alcuni casi potrebbero quasi essere mie figlie (mi sa che questa la dice lunga di come spesso mi senta ancora una ragazza...), però nel suo caso riesco a immedesimarmi molto bene. E riesco anche ad apprezzare il triangolo amoroso che sta andando avanti, fra alti e bassi, da diversi libri: credo che sia dovuto al fatto che, stavolta, ho difficoltà anch'io a scegliere fra i due uomini che si contendono i suoi favori...
Ho apprezzato questo libro sia per la storia gialla (stavolta non avevo proprio capito chi fosse il colpevole) che per l'evolversi della vita della protagonista. Devo dire che quest'ultima è più vicina a me per età che tante altre protagoniste di cozy mysteries: se ben ricordo, ha più di 50 anni e solitamente apprezzo le più giovani, che in alcuni casi potrebbero quasi essere mie figlie (mi sa che questa la dice lunga di come spesso mi senta ancora una ragazza...), però nel suo caso riesco a immedesimarmi molto bene. E riesco anche ad apprezzare il triangolo amoroso che sta andando avanti, fra alti e bassi, da diversi libri: credo che sia dovuto al fatto che, stavolta, ho difficoltà anch'io a scegliere fra i due uomini che si contendono i suoi favori...
April 28, 2019
Enjoyable, as always. 4.5*
June 28, 2018
Knot What You Think is the fifth book in Mary Marks Quilting Mystery series. 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. The author provided enough background information that this book can be read as a standalone. There are lots of twists and turns and enough suspects to keep the reader engaged. I was surprised by the final reveal. I recommend it to others who enjoy cozy mysteries.
Martha Rose, Lucy Mondello, Birdie Watson, and Jazz Fletcher are friends who get together once a week to quilt together and now they are helping Birdie prepare for her upcoming wedding to Denver Watson. Denver is the brother of Birdie’s deceased husband, Russell, who was gay and secretly engaged to Jazz. Jazz has been unsuccessfully trying to deliver an order of clothes and quilted dog carriers for Dolleen ‘Dolly’ Doyle’s Chihuahua, who is her constant companion, and when he mentions it to Martha, she becomes concerned so the group encourages him to try again and decide to join him. When they arrive, Dolly doesn’t answer the door, but they can hear the dog barking. The group discovers Dolly’s body on the kitchen floor. When Jazz becomes the prime suspect in Dolly’s murder, Martha is determined to clear his name and in the process discovers deceit and criminal activity in addition to the Ponzi Scheme Dolly’s husband is serving time in prison for orchestrating. Martha is back with Yossi ‘Crusher’ Levy but LAPD Homicide Detective, Arlo Beavers, is still vying for her attention.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Martha Rose, Lucy Mondello, Birdie Watson, and Jazz Fletcher are friends who get together once a week to quilt together and now they are helping Birdie prepare for her upcoming wedding to Denver Watson. Denver is the brother of Birdie’s deceased husband, Russell, who was gay and secretly engaged to Jazz. Jazz has been unsuccessfully trying to deliver an order of clothes and quilted dog carriers for Dolleen ‘Dolly’ Doyle’s Chihuahua, who is her constant companion, and when he mentions it to Martha, she becomes concerned so the group encourages him to try again and decide to join him. When they arrive, Dolly doesn’t answer the door, but they can hear the dog barking. The group discovers Dolly’s body on the kitchen floor. When Jazz becomes the prime suspect in Dolly’s murder, Martha is determined to clear his name and in the process discovers deceit and criminal activity in addition to the Ponzi Scheme Dolly’s husband is serving time in prison for orchestrating. Martha is back with Yossi ‘Crusher’ Levy but LAPD Homicide Detective, Arlo Beavers, is still vying for her attention.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 14, 2017
Oh my gosh, the cliffhanger ending of Knot What You Think by Mary Marks left me screaming in my head "No, don't end this way!"
Martha Rose and her friends are back in action in this exciting cozy mystery.
I love learning about quilting and of course Martha's relationship with Crusher and Beavers will keep you wondering for sure. I'm rooting for Crusher, Martha is fiercely independent and I think if she marries Beavers it will cramp her style.
In this thrilling story, the death of a wife of a swindler opens a Pandora's Box of deceit, affairs, and a horrible criminal activity, a family involved in a Ponzi Scheme.
When Jazz becomes the prime suspect, Martha Rose has to get involved and before long she's hot on the trail of the real suspect.
You won't want to miss this exciting book.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Martha Rose and her friends are back in action in this exciting cozy mystery.
I love learning about quilting and of course Martha's relationship with Crusher and Beavers will keep you wondering for sure. I'm rooting for Crusher, Martha is fiercely independent and I think if she marries Beavers it will cramp her style.
In this thrilling story, the death of a wife of a swindler opens a Pandora's Box of deceit, affairs, and a horrible criminal activity, a family involved in a Ponzi Scheme.
When Jazz becomes the prime suspect, Martha Rose has to get involved and before long she's hot on the trail of the real suspect.
You won't want to miss this exciting book.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
July 27, 2017
I really like this series and have read them all so far.
Martha Rose and her friends are at it again. When they find out Dollen has passed away Jazz is the one they are looking at. Looking into Dolly's husband they discover deceit and criminal activity in addition to the Ponzi Scheme Dolly’s husband is serving time in prison for orchestrating. Can they find out what is going on?
What about Crusher and Arlo? Will she stay with Crusher? A cute read.
The author really knows how to write a story that will keep the reader glued to the book. You will not want to put this story down until the end and what an ending it is.
Martha Rose and her friends are at it again. When they find out Dollen has passed away Jazz is the one they are looking at. Looking into Dolly's husband they discover deceit and criminal activity in addition to the Ponzi Scheme Dolly’s husband is serving time in prison for orchestrating. Can they find out what is going on?
What about Crusher and Arlo? Will she stay with Crusher? A cute read.
The author really knows how to write a story that will keep the reader glued to the book. You will not want to put this story down until the end and what an ending it is.
January 31, 2021
Another really well written story with fun characters with lots of quirks. I love the humour around religion - plus the Jewish flavour. Poor old Catholic Ray! Enjoyed the mystery, and had become suspicious of the murderer at the ice cream stage.
July 17, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
I giggled, I laughed, I snorted...all in the first few pages. This is the first book that I have read in this series, and it definitely won't be the last. It definitely is a series that should be read in order due to spoilers, but if you read them out of order you'll still be able to follow the story. The mystery was great, with some very interesting revelations, and the epilogue was absolutely wonderful.
I giggled, I laughed, I snorted...all in the first few pages. This is the first book that I have read in this series, and it definitely won't be the last. It definitely is a series that should be read in order due to spoilers, but if you read them out of order you'll still be able to follow the story. The mystery was great, with some very interesting revelations, and the epilogue was absolutely wonderful.
June 22, 2017
Another warm fuzzy cozy from Martha Marks.
Martha Rose's love life still hasn't convinced her on marriage but helping with Birdie & Denver Watson's nuptials is something everyone in the Tuesday Quilting Group is excited about.
When Jazz Fletcher finds himself the person of interest in the death of his client, Dolleen Shapiro, Martha Lucy and Birdie put their skills together to find the motive and the murderer.
Bits of interesting Jewish traditions are woven into the novel as Passover season arrives and Uncle Isaac and his friends clash.
Information on quilting patterns and techniques are woven into the story and tips close out the book.
Personal note: I hope this is the last time indecision about marriage and life partner. Don't do a Stephanie Plum or Hannah Swensen please!!! Psychic Paulina could be left out. Not my cup of tea leaves.
Martha Rose's love life still hasn't convinced her on marriage but helping with Birdie & Denver Watson's nuptials is something everyone in the Tuesday Quilting Group is excited about.
When Jazz Fletcher finds himself the person of interest in the death of his client, Dolleen Shapiro, Martha Lucy and Birdie put their skills together to find the motive and the murderer.
Bits of interesting Jewish traditions are woven into the novel as Passover season arrives and Uncle Isaac and his friends clash.
Information on quilting patterns and techniques are woven into the story and tips close out the book.
Personal note: I hope this is the last time indecision about marriage and life partner. Don't do a Stephanie Plum or Hannah Swensen please!!! Psychic Paulina could be left out. Not my cup of tea leaves.
June 25, 2017
An outstanding cozy murder with hints of quilting and Jewish customs skillfully woven with the story. Martha Rose attempts to clear Jazz, a fellow quilter of a murder charge finds a secret room, a Ponzi scheme, false testimony, greed, a fortune teller, and romance in this book. Martha must act fast if she is to save Jazz from spending time in prison. The ending has a cliffhanger that will shock you. I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review.
Disclosure: I received a free copy Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review.
June 20, 2017
I am tired of love triangles including the one in this series. As with all triangles, the character involved needs to reflect and make a decision. In this case, she should probably dump both since neither seems to fulfill what she needs. Let's see a main female character who thinks about what she wants/needs and decides if the male interests can provide that and cut this wishy washy crap out. Why waste our time book after book with this in a mystery?
I liked the all the investigating that Martha and her friends (but mostly Martha) do and seeing how her friends' lives are changing (primarily Birdie's) though. I found the resolution of the murder was weak, but I was kept guessing.
So, overall not my favorite Quilting mystery, but still enjoyable. 2.5/5
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I liked the all the investigating that Martha and her friends (but mostly Martha) do and seeing how her friends' lives are changing (primarily Birdie's) though. I found the resolution of the murder was weak, but I was kept guessing.
So, overall not my favorite Quilting mystery, but still enjoyable. 2.5/5
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2018
A gripping and intense mystery, Martha is full of vigor, very brave, interested in the truth and helping her friends. She is plagued by two strong men, one who truly loves her and one who is jealous and wants a second chance, but finding the killer and saving her friend Jazz from being arrested for a crime he didn't commit, is uppermost on her agenda, so no deep commitment like marriage until this case was solved. I got an educative glimpse into the Jewish culture and a few quilting lessons, if I ever do decide to have a go at it. The storyline was exceptional, it was a truly interesting book with great characters, I like Crusher over Aldo, nicely done.
January 11, 2021
Couldn't Put it Down!
I love the characters in the Quilting Mystery series ... they are as colorful as the quilts Martha and her friends piece together. That the stories take place where I was born and raised makes them all the more enjoyable.
I love the characters in the Quilting Mystery series ... they are as colorful as the quilts Martha and her friends piece together. That the stories take place where I was born and raised makes them all the more enjoyable.
May 29, 2018
This was a cute quick cozy murder mystery. I enjoyed it. It's a nice break from the historical books I normally read. I would read another from this author.
August 9, 2021
So fun!
Love this series! The main character is so witty and smart and so likable and her friends are great! Such a fun adventure!
Love this series! The main character is so witty and smart and so likable and her friends are great! Such a fun adventure!
November 6, 2021
I really loved this series...up to this book. Shame on you Martha Rose!!
August 8, 2017
Interesting characters. I know more about the little group of friends and how they support each other during tough times...just think the love triangle is a hoot! Each boyfriend has his good and bad characteristics. Can't wait to find out who will be chosen.
July 15, 2017
I'm not a quilter and I haven't read all the books in this series but that didn't stop me from enjoying this classic cozy. I like Martha and the fact that she was determined to clear her friend Jazz. There was more to this than I initially realized, which made it a better read than some. The characters, especially Martha and Birdie, were fun and the complications in the plot, while not numerous, were sufficient to keep me engaged. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. You will like this if you a) like Marks' work b) like crafting cozies or c) enjoy a light relaxing read that keeps you guessing. No spoilers but watch out for that ending!
June 2, 2019
While I continue to enjoy this series there were a couple of things in this book, the fifth in the series, that I find annoying. The first is that while Martha is creative in finding ways to get answers in this book she straight out breaks the law on more than one occasion and does stupid things. The other thing that is really starting to affect the way I view this series is the never ending love triangle. For a woman who is smart in do many ways the way she acts in this aspect of the books is annoying beyond words, I hope this ends with this book.
July 28, 2017
I would like to thank Kensington Books for providing me with a free electronic ARC of this book, via Netgalley, in exchange for an open and honest review.
‘Knot What You Think’ is the 5th book in the ‘A Quilting Mystery’ series and just as wonderful and entertaining to read as the other four. I have been a fan from near the beginning. I think I stumbled across the 2nd or 3rd book in the series on Netgalley, loved it so much I went to Amazon and bought the first books of the series and have never looked back. I am officially a fan!
And this book has not let me down. Another mystery, another dead body and one of Martha’s friends accused of being the murderer. I do love how the characters have evolved and grown with the series. No rehashing the same cookie cutter ideas each time. Many cosy series seem to do this and the characters make the same mistakes and do the same crazy things each book and seem surprised they get the same end results. But this is not the case with Martha et al. Oh no! They’ve been learning as they go and can officially now run rings around the police force also trying to solve the case. It’s wonderful that they know they really shouldn’t be doing what they do… but let’s just try this idea anyhow and hope for the best. A lot of chutzpah there Martha! ;-)
But it’s not all about crime and dead bodies; there is still that interesting underlying description of LA that I simply can’t read elsewhere. Never having visited that city I can’t say it makes me know where I am… but I do like the way it does still link the reader to a real place and it somehow makes me feel more part of the story by letting me know where everything is.
Then there are the love and romances happening… some coming to the final commitment, some budding and new, some… well, some just all over the place making me want to shake someone by the shoulders and demand they just make up their damned mind! And that final line in ‘Knot What You Think’? Oh Ms Marks, talk about leaving your fans hanging and dying for more!
Let’s not forget my two favourite parts - besides the mystery - within this book. The quilting and the wonderful sharing of the Jewish Faith. I am a hand crafting nut with a passion to learn about how other people follow their faith and so simply adore both these parts of the tale… and would feel rather sad and lonely if they were left out.
All in all this is a wonderfully well rounded mystery/ cosy crime. It has a good balance of everything that keeps it entertaining and keeps we crime sleuths guessing. Well, actually I figured out the whodunit early on (bane of my existence that I do this) but I still needed to know the why and didn’t get that until the end. And all my questions were answered nicely without the book seeming to need to rush to finish or just stop. Which I hate in mysteries/ cosy crime stories. They tell you the who and why and then - the end. Any loose threads are left flapping in the breeze. But it didn’t happen with ‘Knot What You Think’. A true quilter knows how to deal with loose threads and tuck them all neatly away before displaying the final perfect piece.
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would, though I would strongly advise they read the first four books in the series before reading this one. It’s not a stand-alone novel, refers back to their other adventures quite a bit and I really feel the reader would be missing out and doing both themselves and Ms Marks an injustice if they didn’t read all five books in order.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Yes I would. I already own the other books in the series (bought via Kindle) and would be more than happy to add book 5 to my list when I can. I just had a bit of a buying splurge though so give me a few months. ;-) Owning the electronic ARC of a book is one thing, but putting your money where your mouth is and paying for a copy - because you respect the author - is totally another thing. Where possible I always pay for a copy of books I enjoy simply to give the author the credit and reward they deserve.
In summary: A fantastic follow on book to an already highly entertaining mystery series. Highly recommend!
‘Knot What You Think’ is the 5th book in the ‘A Quilting Mystery’ series and just as wonderful and entertaining to read as the other four. I have been a fan from near the beginning. I think I stumbled across the 2nd or 3rd book in the series on Netgalley, loved it so much I went to Amazon and bought the first books of the series and have never looked back. I am officially a fan!
And this book has not let me down. Another mystery, another dead body and one of Martha’s friends accused of being the murderer. I do love how the characters have evolved and grown with the series. No rehashing the same cookie cutter ideas each time. Many cosy series seem to do this and the characters make the same mistakes and do the same crazy things each book and seem surprised they get the same end results. But this is not the case with Martha et al. Oh no! They’ve been learning as they go and can officially now run rings around the police force also trying to solve the case. It’s wonderful that they know they really shouldn’t be doing what they do… but let’s just try this idea anyhow and hope for the best. A lot of chutzpah there Martha! ;-)
But it’s not all about crime and dead bodies; there is still that interesting underlying description of LA that I simply can’t read elsewhere. Never having visited that city I can’t say it makes me know where I am… but I do like the way it does still link the reader to a real place and it somehow makes me feel more part of the story by letting me know where everything is.
Then there are the love and romances happening… some coming to the final commitment, some budding and new, some… well, some just all over the place making me want to shake someone by the shoulders and demand they just make up their damned mind! And that final line in ‘Knot What You Think’? Oh Ms Marks, talk about leaving your fans hanging and dying for more!
Let’s not forget my two favourite parts - besides the mystery - within this book. The quilting and the wonderful sharing of the Jewish Faith. I am a hand crafting nut with a passion to learn about how other people follow their faith and so simply adore both these parts of the tale… and would feel rather sad and lonely if they were left out.
All in all this is a wonderfully well rounded mystery/ cosy crime. It has a good balance of everything that keeps it entertaining and keeps we crime sleuths guessing. Well, actually I figured out the whodunit early on (bane of my existence that I do this) but I still needed to know the why and didn’t get that until the end. And all my questions were answered nicely without the book seeming to need to rush to finish or just stop. Which I hate in mysteries/ cosy crime stories. They tell you the who and why and then - the end. Any loose threads are left flapping in the breeze. But it didn’t happen with ‘Knot What You Think’. A true quilter knows how to deal with loose threads and tuck them all neatly away before displaying the final perfect piece.
Would I recommend this book to others?
Yes I would, though I would strongly advise they read the first four books in the series before reading this one. It’s not a stand-alone novel, refers back to their other adventures quite a bit and I really feel the reader would be missing out and doing both themselves and Ms Marks an injustice if they didn’t read all five books in order.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Yes I would. I already own the other books in the series (bought via Kindle) and would be more than happy to add book 5 to my list when I can. I just had a bit of a buying splurge though so give me a few months. ;-) Owning the electronic ARC of a book is one thing, but putting your money where your mouth is and paying for a copy - because you respect the author - is totally another thing. Where possible I always pay for a copy of books I enjoy simply to give the author the credit and reward they deserve.
In summary: A fantastic follow on book to an already highly entertaining mystery series. Highly recommend!
July 28, 2017
Knot What You Think by Mary Marks is the fifth installment in A Quilting Mystery series. Martha Rose and her friends are settling in to spend the day quilting when Jazz Fletcher arrives. He was trying to deliver some completed doggie outfits and accessories to Dolleen Doyle. They had arranged to meet the previous evening, but Dolleen was a no show. Jazz, though, could hear her dog, Patti barking inside. Dollen was never without her beloved pooch. Jazz stopped by again this morning, and, again, there was no answer (just barking). Martha has a bad feeling, so the group heads to Dolleen’s house in nearby Tarzana. They peek in Dolleen’s windows and discover her laying in a pool of blood on her kitchen floor. The quickly enter the house through the unlocked back door, but they are too late to save Dolleen. Martha calls Detective Arlo Beavers (her ex-boyfriend), a LAPD homicide detective, who rushes over. After the evidence is processed, Jazz ends up the prime suspect. Martha puts on her investigator cap and delves into Dolleen’s life. It turns out that Dolleen was keeping secrets, and they are the key to finding her killer. Follow Martha Rose and her friends on their quest to capture a murderer in Knot What You Think.
Knot What You Think is nicely written and it has a good pace. I appreciate that Mary Marks included a character (Martha Rose that has fibromyalgia. Many people do not understand what sufferers of fibromyalgia experience (it is a misunderstood disease). The character of Martha Rose is well-developed. I am, though, tired of her indecision regarding her romantic life. There is a love triangle (insert groan here) between Martha Rose, Yossi “Crusher” Levy and Arlo Beavers (I am Team Arlo). I believe the situation will be resolved in the next book in the series (keep your fingers crossed). The romance takes up too much of the story. I prefer romantic entanglements to be in the background and not dominate a novel. I did, though, enjoy Birdie’s wedding at the end of the story. Birdie deserves her happy ending. My rating for Knot What You Think 3 out of 5 stars. The mystery is slightly complex and gets more interesting in the second half of the book. The suspect pool is small, and I thought one individual (the killer) stood out. I did like the quilt descriptions provided in the story especially the one on charm quilts. I found the information about the Jewish faith and their traditions (Passover was celebrated in the story) to be very informative. I wish there had been less repetition of certain details (the “do rag” Yossi wears on his head and why, Yossi’s job, why Martha Rose has trust issues, details about Jazz Fletcher’s relationship with Russell Watson, the type of car Jazz drives are a few examples). Knot What You Think can be a read without having enjoyed the previous four novels in the series (all that you need to know is included). At the end of Knot What You Think, readers are left with a cliffhanger. Who is behind Martha Rose at Birdie’s wedding?
Knot What You Think is nicely written and it has a good pace. I appreciate that Mary Marks included a character (Martha Rose that has fibromyalgia. Many people do not understand what sufferers of fibromyalgia experience (it is a misunderstood disease). The character of Martha Rose is well-developed. I am, though, tired of her indecision regarding her romantic life. There is a love triangle (insert groan here) between Martha Rose, Yossi “Crusher” Levy and Arlo Beavers (I am Team Arlo). I believe the situation will be resolved in the next book in the series (keep your fingers crossed). The romance takes up too much of the story. I prefer romantic entanglements to be in the background and not dominate a novel. I did, though, enjoy Birdie’s wedding at the end of the story. Birdie deserves her happy ending. My rating for Knot What You Think 3 out of 5 stars. The mystery is slightly complex and gets more interesting in the second half of the book. The suspect pool is small, and I thought one individual (the killer) stood out. I did like the quilt descriptions provided in the story especially the one on charm quilts. I found the information about the Jewish faith and their traditions (Passover was celebrated in the story) to be very informative. I wish there had been less repetition of certain details (the “do rag” Yossi wears on his head and why, Yossi’s job, why Martha Rose has trust issues, details about Jazz Fletcher’s relationship with Russell Watson, the type of car Jazz drives are a few examples). Knot What You Think can be a read without having enjoyed the previous four novels in the series (all that you need to know is included). At the end of Knot What You Think, readers are left with a cliffhanger. Who is behind Martha Rose at Birdie’s wedding?
August 5, 2017
What a wonderful story filled with facts that kept my attention. I appreciated the history behind Passover and the different foods that are eaten during this holiday. The Jewish faith play a big part in Martha's life and I loved her family. As Martha and her friends are ready for a day of quilting , Jazz rushes in with astounding news. One of his esteemed clients is not answering her phone or door. I loved Jazz instantly and thought his job of designing dog outfits to be amusing. I know people love to dress their dogs up in outlandish costumes and Jazz is the perfect person to design them. He is talented and loved by many. But oh my the poor little things have to wear attires that are so over the top I had to laugh. The great news is Jazz well known and has a very prestigious client list.
I will get to the chase and just say one of Jazz's clients is found dead and yes you guessed it, he is a person of interest. Martha is having none of that and starts her own "investigation." She is very smart and her eye for details is a very good quality when turning detective . My favorite character has to be Crusher. He is a man to be reckon with. He works with the ATF and with his looks and build, he could put fear in anyone. Why can't Martha just give in and marry him already? Could it be that she still has feelings for a certain detective who cheated on her?
As suspects go, there were the vast array of finger pointing going on. I loved the mystery and secrets that the dead woman held close to her. Now the question arises , what secrets was she keeping that got her killed? I know some will figure out the killer but I was a bit taken back when it was revealed. I was so sure of who it was , only to be surprised by a twist in the story. I loved the suspense the author built up.
If you are a quilter or one who loves quilts, then you are in for a treat while reading this book. The author gives great detail in how to make one. The description is so vivid I could see them sewing as the group talked about the murder. One last thing I have to mention. Will Martha ever decide who to marry? My money is on a certain tall dark and handsome ATF guy. I can't wait for the next book to find out what Martha is up to.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Virtual Blogging Tour. The review is my own opinion.
I will get to the chase and just say one of Jazz's clients is found dead and yes you guessed it, he is a person of interest. Martha is having none of that and starts her own "investigation." She is very smart and her eye for details is a very good quality when turning detective . My favorite character has to be Crusher. He is a man to be reckon with. He works with the ATF and with his looks and build, he could put fear in anyone. Why can't Martha just give in and marry him already? Could it be that she still has feelings for a certain detective who cheated on her?
As suspects go, there were the vast array of finger pointing going on. I loved the mystery and secrets that the dead woman held close to her. Now the question arises , what secrets was she keeping that got her killed? I know some will figure out the killer but I was a bit taken back when it was revealed. I was so sure of who it was , only to be surprised by a twist in the story. I loved the suspense the author built up.
If you are a quilter or one who loves quilts, then you are in for a treat while reading this book. The author gives great detail in how to make one. The description is so vivid I could see them sewing as the group talked about the murder. One last thing I have to mention. Will Martha ever decide who to marry? My money is on a certain tall dark and handsome ATF guy. I can't wait for the next book to find out what Martha is up to.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Virtual Blogging Tour. The review is my own opinion.
August 2, 2017
Title: Knot What You Think - Quilting Mystery Book 5
Author: Mary Marks
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 7-25-2017
Pages: 288
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub-Genre: Crafts & Hobbies; Amateur Sleuths; Cozy Mystery;
ISBN: 9781496701824
ASIN: B01M8OZL19
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Jazz is in the line of fire in the fifth installment of the series. When Jazz tries to deliver some promised doggie outfits to Dolleen Doyle. After two failed attempts, Jazz, Martha Rose, BIrdie and Lucy head over to Dolleen's home where they find he in a pool of blood in her kitchen. After contacting the local police Jazz is given the honor of being suspect number one. Determined to clear her friend and to find the real killer Martha and her friends delve into Dolleen's life to find out who killed her and why.
This group of friends may be older but they are some of the youngest souls I have even known. They are all close friends and share a history I am enjoying learning more about with each book. Mary Marks has a talent for blending, mystery, suspense and humor to give readers a great story. With well written plot and fleshed out characters "Knot what You Think" is a quick fun read.
My rating of "Knot What You Think - Quilting Mystery Book 5" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M8OZL19/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/knot...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Knot-W...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/knot...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Mary Marks
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 7-25-2017
Pages: 288
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub-Genre: Crafts & Hobbies; Amateur Sleuths; Cozy Mystery;
ISBN: 9781496701824
ASIN: B01M8OZL19
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Jazz is in the line of fire in the fifth installment of the series. When Jazz tries to deliver some promised doggie outfits to Dolleen Doyle. After two failed attempts, Jazz, Martha Rose, BIrdie and Lucy head over to Dolleen's home where they find he in a pool of blood in her kitchen. After contacting the local police Jazz is given the honor of being suspect number one. Determined to clear her friend and to find the real killer Martha and her friends delve into Dolleen's life to find out who killed her and why.
This group of friends may be older but they are some of the youngest souls I have even known. They are all close friends and share a history I am enjoying learning more about with each book. Mary Marks has a talent for blending, mystery, suspense and humor to give readers a great story. With well written plot and fleshed out characters "Knot what You Think" is a quick fun read.
My rating of "Knot What You Think - Quilting Mystery Book 5" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M8OZL19/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/knot...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Knot-W...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/knot...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
August 17, 2017
Martha, Birdie, Lucy, and Jazz are back in Mary Marks' 5 book in her Quilting Mystery series. Jazz is a murder suspect when one of his friends, Dolleen Doyle, is found dead. Jazz's prints are all over the murder weapon and inside Dolleen's home. Knowing he isn't a murderer Martha begins her sleuthing to help clear Jazz's name. Her beau, Crusher, supports her as she puts clues together and creates a murder board. Her ex, Arlo, isn't nearly as big of a fan.
As the murder investigation continues, Martha discovers that Dolleen had some skeletons in her closet. As she gets closer to identifying the suspect, much to the chagrin of the real detectives, things heat up. Add in a boyfriend and an ex-boyfriend and the murder of Dolleen isn't the only thing heating up. Danger mounts as the mystery unfolds - and there is more than one story line that takes place in Knot What You Think.
Martha Rose is the typical heroine - totally not a crime solver/fighter but makes it her duty to dive in head first whether there's water in the pool or not. Martha Rose puts herself into vary precarious situations and breaks a lot of laws in her quest to find the killer. Birdie and Lucy are great sidekicks and I enjoy theirs roles in each Quilting Mystery. The women quilt together, providing a bit of murder mystery down time
Mary Marks does another wonderful job building up the mystery and keeping the responsible party a secret. The truth of the situation is revealed at the perfect time and the person responsible is not the person I thought it would be. The writing flows well and is concise. The author's writing style is fluid and smooth and so easy to get lost in. The romantic elements of Knot What You Think are subtle and don't overshadow the mystery. The entire novel is engaging; never a dull moment.
As the murder investigation continues, Martha discovers that Dolleen had some skeletons in her closet. As she gets closer to identifying the suspect, much to the chagrin of the real detectives, things heat up. Add in a boyfriend and an ex-boyfriend and the murder of Dolleen isn't the only thing heating up. Danger mounts as the mystery unfolds - and there is more than one story line that takes place in Knot What You Think.
Martha Rose is the typical heroine - totally not a crime solver/fighter but makes it her duty to dive in head first whether there's water in the pool or not. Martha Rose puts herself into vary precarious situations and breaks a lot of laws in her quest to find the killer. Birdie and Lucy are great sidekicks and I enjoy theirs roles in each Quilting Mystery. The women quilt together, providing a bit of murder mystery down time
Mary Marks does another wonderful job building up the mystery and keeping the responsible party a secret. The truth of the situation is revealed at the perfect time and the person responsible is not the person I thought it would be. The writing flows well and is concise. The author's writing style is fluid and smooth and so easy to get lost in. The romantic elements of Knot What You Think are subtle and don't overshadow the mystery. The entire novel is engaging; never a dull moment.
October 18, 2017
Martha Rose takes center stage in the cozy mystery Knot What You Think by Mary Marks. Martha has been quilting with a small group of friends in L.A. every Tuesday for seventeen years. They also form her support group as she investigates mysteries that come her way. She is an observant Jew, and so there are a lot of Yiddish phrases that spice up the writing with meanings inserted in a non-intrusive way. There are two love interests: Arlo Beaver, the straight shooting LAPD homicide detective and “Crusher,” a secret ops/undercover ATF agent.
This cozy mystery swirls with personal threads—weddings, funerals, ex’s, health issues, quilting, swindles, and dogs in fancy dress. Usually that would be too much distraction for me from the main point of the book: discovering the identity of a murderer. Surprisingly, Mary Marks is able to put it all together and make it work. The side issues are, in fact, important to Martha’s process of investigation. In spite of the fact that I was reading it during some traveling, I always enjoyed coming back to it until the mystery was solved.
There were interesting notes about quilting scattered through the story. The book ended with an epilogue that tied up some of the personal stories with promise of more to come.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This cozy mystery swirls with personal threads—weddings, funerals, ex’s, health issues, quilting, swindles, and dogs in fancy dress. Usually that would be too much distraction for me from the main point of the book: discovering the identity of a murderer. Surprisingly, Mary Marks is able to put it all together and make it work. The side issues are, in fact, important to Martha’s process of investigation. In spite of the fact that I was reading it during some traveling, I always enjoyed coming back to it until the mystery was solved.
There were interesting notes about quilting scattered through the story. The book ended with an epilogue that tied up some of the personal stories with promise of more to come.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2018
Since the last book in this series, Jazz has joined the quilting group and has become great friends with Martha, Lucy and Birdie. When Jazz's friend and client, Dolleen (Dolly) ends up dead, Jazz is the main suspect. Of course the quilting group are the ones that find the body when Jazz tells them that he can't get in contact with Dolly, and her dog seems to be alone in the house. She would never leave her dog alone. They head off to the house and find her dead on the floor. The ladies put their skills to work to try to find the real murderer, their motive and opportunity. There are several things happening in this story. Besides the murder, there are several people who have lost their saving due to a ponzi scheme, Birdie is getting remarried, and Martha Rose is still dealing with her love life and whether to trust anyone enough to remarry. I really enjoy the bits of interesting Jewish traditions that are woven into the novel as Passover season arrives. There is information on quilting sprinkled throughout the story with some tips at the end of the book as well. A well plotted and written cozy that I very much enjoy. I just want Martha Rose to make a decision regarding her love life. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
June 30, 2018
Jazz, the newest member of the quilting bee, arrives to the Tuesday morning meeting late and annoyed, he has branched out from his bespoke menswear into Canine Couture and Accessories and he went to make a delivery the previous night, only the get no answer and the same thing happened that morning (hence being late and annoyed), Martha has flashbacks to the first body they found, Lucy has a bad feeling and Birdie is supporting Jazz, before they know what is happening they are headed out to Dolleen Doyle's house and it turns out that Martha's flashback and Lucy's ESP are right and the quilt gang is slap bang in the middle of another murder, but this time it is personal as Jazz is being framed for the murder (and Detective Kaplan is determined to see him in jail!), so luckily Jazz is not currently arrested and he can plan and make Birdie's wedding dress, Martha will do what Martha does best with Lucy and Birdie as back up.
Let the battle commence!
Another fantastic story by Mary Marks, a lot of series you can only read one book at a time because you become satiated and there is too much repetition, these just flow and you WANT to keep reading, thank whatever you hold sacred that there is another one due out this year! (but Ms Marks how long before number seven GRIN)
Let the battle commence!
Another fantastic story by Mary Marks, a lot of series you can only read one book at a time because you become satiated and there is too much repetition, these just flow and you WANT to keep reading, thank whatever you hold sacred that there is another one due out this year! (but Ms Marks how long before number seven GRIN)
August 1, 2017
The years may be piling up with this group of friends but they are as tight as ever.
Along with a wonderfully nosy cozy we get insight into Jewish high traditions and celebrations and some sage quilting advice.
I love the characters in Mary Marks's quilting mystery series. Some people prefer to spend their senior years more sedataely, but when Martha, Lucy and Birdie get together, you can not predict what will happen. Add in their most recent and somewhat unlikely new quilting circle member, Jazz, and there is nothing quiet or predictable about this story.
That goes even without mentioning the tension between Martha's ever hopeful live-in boyfriend and her too often present ex-lover, both of whom are macho types, both in law enforcement.
Love is in the air- but who does cupid have in his sight?
I felt the psychic references added something extra to the investigation and enjoyed the happenings.
I accepted this book via Netgalley to read, enjoy and review.
Along with a wonderfully nosy cozy we get insight into Jewish high traditions and celebrations and some sage quilting advice.
I love the characters in Mary Marks's quilting mystery series. Some people prefer to spend their senior years more sedataely, but when Martha, Lucy and Birdie get together, you can not predict what will happen. Add in their most recent and somewhat unlikely new quilting circle member, Jazz, and there is nothing quiet or predictable about this story.
That goes even without mentioning the tension between Martha's ever hopeful live-in boyfriend and her too often present ex-lover, both of whom are macho types, both in law enforcement.
Love is in the air- but who does cupid have in his sight?
I felt the psychic references added something extra to the investigation and enjoyed the happenings.
I accepted this book via Netgalley to read, enjoy and review.
September 18, 2020
I think I'm averaging one book in this series a day, once I start reading the book I just don't have the will power to stop!!!
In this, the 5th book in the series, the 4th member of the quilters takes his place, Jazz was introduced in the 4th book, he was the secret partner of Russell, Birdie's husband, who was murdered at the bank.
Jazz comes with Zsa Zsa, his very small Maltese dog, who is always dressed in a made to measure wardrobe designed and made by Jazz, he's a clothes designer, dressing movie stars when he's not quilting with the ladies.
This time, Jazz is accused of murdering his 'manscaper' (male waxing beautician), and the ladies have to try to find who really did it, and why, before he's put in jail.
Several characters from previous books are paty of this book, so it's best to read this series in order.
I've downloaded the 6th book already! I just can't put them down!!!
In this, the 5th book in the series, the 4th member of the quilters takes his place, Jazz was introduced in the 4th book, he was the secret partner of Russell, Birdie's husband, who was murdered at the bank.
Jazz comes with Zsa Zsa, his very small Maltese dog, who is always dressed in a made to measure wardrobe designed and made by Jazz, he's a clothes designer, dressing movie stars when he's not quilting with the ladies.
This time, Jazz is accused of murdering his 'manscaper' (male waxing beautician), and the ladies have to try to find who really did it, and why, before he's put in jail.
Several characters from previous books are paty of this book, so it's best to read this series in order.
I've downloaded the 6th book already! I just can't put them down!!!
November 15, 2017
So, I said in a recent review I'm over the NYC fashionista fast paced chick lit. So, this book....about post menopausal women who quilt and find dead bodies...is slightly ahead of my current place in life, but it's funny. Some of the women are married, some are dating. Throw in the main character being a practicing Jew and you have quite the story! I love Uncle Isaac and the solemnity and ritual of the weekly Shabbat. Plus, this isn't chick lit, it's a cozy mystery. There is a murder involved, but it's not a nasty, gory thriller type crime, a person is found dead but the scene isn't a bloody mess. The murderer ends up being just an average person who committed the act in a moment of passion...anger, fear, etc....I love the characters, they make me laugh...and no, I'm not ready for elastic waist jeans and Crocs any time soon.
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