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Bad Hair Day #10
Shear Murder
Getting married can be murder… especially when the matron of honor is found dead under the cake table...
Weddings always make hairstylist Marla Shore shed a tear of joy, especially when she attends her friend Jill’s reception as a member of the bridal party. Marla’s own nuptials are weeks away, and she’s been busy juggling bickering relatives, building a new house with her fiancé, and expanding her hair salon.
She’s following her to-do list just fine until she discovers Jill’s sister Torrie—the matron of honor—dead under the cake table at her friend’s wedding reception. Lots of folks aren’t sorry to see Torrie go, especially since the bride’s sister knew their deepest secrets. But when suspicion falls upon Jill, Marla wonders if her dear friend is truly innocent. She’d better untangle the snarl of suspects and iron out the clues before the killer highlights her as the next victim.
Weddings always make hairstylist Marla Shore shed a tear of joy, especially when she attends her friend Jill’s reception as a member of the bridal party. Marla’s own nuptials are weeks away, and she’s been busy juggling bickering relatives, building a new house with her fiancé, and expanding her hair salon.
She’s following her to-do list just fine until she discovers Jill’s sister Torrie—the matron of honor—dead under the cake table at her friend’s wedding reception. Lots of folks aren’t sorry to see Torrie go, especially since the bride’s sister knew their deepest secrets. But when suspicion falls upon Jill, Marla wonders if her dear friend is truly innocent. She’d better untangle the snarl of suspects and iron out the clues before the killer highlights her as the next victim.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
About the author
Nancy J. Cohen
41 books668 followersNancy J. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mysteries featuring South Florida hairstylist Marla Vail. Titles in this series have been named Best Cozy Mystery by Suspense Magazine, won the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards and the RONE Award, placed first in the Chanticleer International Book Awards and third in the Arizona Literary Awards. Her nonfiction titles, Writing the Cozy Mystery and A Bad Hair Day Cookbook, have won the FAPA President’s Book Award, the Royal Palm Literary Award, and IAN Book of the Year. Nancy’s imaginative romances have proven popular with fans as well. These books have won the HOLT Medallion and Best Book in Romantic SciFi/Fantasy at The Romance Reviews. Active in the writing community, Nancy is a past president of Florida Romance Writers and Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. When not busy writing, she enjoys reading, fine dining, cruising, and visiting Disney World. Visit her at NancyJCohen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 31, 2022
Cheers to Marla and Dalton! Another good entry in the series and another case solved. Such enjoyable characters and entertaining storylines.
January 16, 2016
This whole series has been a lot of fun.
In this installment, Marla not only does hair for a wedding, but is a bridesmaid and finally a bride. At crunch time for her own wedding plans she is also trying to solve a murder. Marla takes multitasking to a whole new level. Dalton really understands her need to be in the middle of things and his daughter Brianna has a great relationship with Marla. I am so happy this new family is coming together.
The family dynamics at work in both Marla’s case and Jill and Torrie’s are very entertaining. Marla knows just how to handle her own relatives and her future in-laws. Torrie’s family and friends are so dysfunctional the suspects in her death are many and when the culprit was revealed this reader was quite surprised.
This is an ideal cozy mystery full of murder, mayhem, humor and romance. It is so fast paced you will read it in one sitting, just as I did. This book is definitely the perfect book to “escape into” this winter, it will warm you right up!
In this installment, Marla not only does hair for a wedding, but is a bridesmaid and finally a bride. At crunch time for her own wedding plans she is also trying to solve a murder. Marla takes multitasking to a whole new level. Dalton really understands her need to be in the middle of things and his daughter Brianna has a great relationship with Marla. I am so happy this new family is coming together.
The family dynamics at work in both Marla’s case and Jill and Torrie’s are very entertaining. Marla knows just how to handle her own relatives and her future in-laws. Torrie’s family and friends are so dysfunctional the suspects in her death are many and when the culprit was revealed this reader was quite surprised.
This is an ideal cozy mystery full of murder, mayhem, humor and romance. It is so fast paced you will read it in one sitting, just as I did. This book is definitely the perfect book to “escape into” this winter, it will warm you right up!
March 18, 2012
maybe it's my mood, but this book seemed to d r a g!!
January 17, 2012
Shear Murder
By: Nancy J. Cohen
Copyright February 2012
Publisher Five Star
Weddings always make Marla Shore shed a tear of joy, and she’s slated to attend her friend Jill’s affair as a member of the bridal party. Marla’s own nuptials are weeks away, and she’s been busy juggling bickering relatives, building a new house with her fiancé, and expanding her hair salon.
The South Florida Stylist is following her to-do list just fine until an unexpected even unravels her carefully laid plans. At Jill’s wedding reception, Marla discovers the matron of honor, Jill’s sister, Torrie – dead under the cake table, a knife embedded in her chest.
Unfortunately, Jill has a strong motive for murder. She and Torrie co-owned a piece of commercial property, and they’d disagreed on whether to sell or lease the land. Now with Torrie out of the way, Jill’s decision can rule. Or can it? Her relatives may have some say on who gets control, meaning Jill can’t trust any of them.
Torrie knew secrets about her colleagues, too, things they wouldn’t want revealed. But when Marla learns one of those secrets involves Jill’s past, she wonders if her friend is truly innocent. She’d better untangle the snarl of suspects and iron out the clues before the killer highlights her as the next victim.
Marla definitely needs to concentrate on her upcoming wedding. Unfortunately she first has to deal with getting her friend Jill’s nuptials out of the way. Not only is she a Bride’s Maid at this shindig, but she is also in charge of the wedding party’s hair and makeup.
What was supposed to be a simple wedding, helping her friend Arnie and his fiancé Jill (which takes her mind off her own wedding) gets Marla caught up, not only in a family squabble but also another murder.
Jill and Torrie get into is while at Marla’s Salon, they get so loud that Marla comments “if they don’t stop squabbling one of them is going to end up dead by the end of the day”. A more prophetic statement was never said. The basis of this ongoing argument is their co-ownership of a piece of rental property which needs their attention. They can’t agree on what to do with it, and the rest of the family (who really should stay out of it) are giving them more advice and offers of assistance then they need.
All this, while they are getting their hair and nails done in preparation for Jill’s wedding later that afternoon. So it’s a big surprise later when the newlywed couple is finally ready to do the bouquet toss and Torrie is missing. Exasperated by her sister has disappeared Marla suggests that Torrie might have just stepped out to visit the ladies room and that they should move on to the cake cutting ceremony. Walking over to where the three tier cake is sitting on a round table, she notices a door leading to the service area. There is a lovely cloth covering the rolling table and the cake is a work of art. Looking for the cake knife she doesn’t see it. Lifting the tablecloth to check if it had fallen, Marla is shocked to see Torrie’s dead body stretched out under the wedding cake with the cake knife embedded in her chest.
This is the tenth book in Nancy Cohen’s Bad Hair Day mystery series. Each book has gotten progressively better and more puzzling, and intriguing in its depth story line and character enhancements. Each book brings out more and more of Marla’s ability to not only fall over a body, but solve the mystery before the professionals.
FTC Full Disclosure: I received this book from the author, who only asked for a fair and impartial review.
By: Nancy J. Cohen
Copyright February 2012
Publisher Five Star
Weddings always make Marla Shore shed a tear of joy, and she’s slated to attend her friend Jill’s affair as a member of the bridal party. Marla’s own nuptials are weeks away, and she’s been busy juggling bickering relatives, building a new house with her fiancé, and expanding her hair salon.
The South Florida Stylist is following her to-do list just fine until an unexpected even unravels her carefully laid plans. At Jill’s wedding reception, Marla discovers the matron of honor, Jill’s sister, Torrie – dead under the cake table, a knife embedded in her chest.
Unfortunately, Jill has a strong motive for murder. She and Torrie co-owned a piece of commercial property, and they’d disagreed on whether to sell or lease the land. Now with Torrie out of the way, Jill’s decision can rule. Or can it? Her relatives may have some say on who gets control, meaning Jill can’t trust any of them.
Torrie knew secrets about her colleagues, too, things they wouldn’t want revealed. But when Marla learns one of those secrets involves Jill’s past, she wonders if her friend is truly innocent. She’d better untangle the snarl of suspects and iron out the clues before the killer highlights her as the next victim.
Marla definitely needs to concentrate on her upcoming wedding. Unfortunately she first has to deal with getting her friend Jill’s nuptials out of the way. Not only is she a Bride’s Maid at this shindig, but she is also in charge of the wedding party’s hair and makeup.
What was supposed to be a simple wedding, helping her friend Arnie and his fiancé Jill (which takes her mind off her own wedding) gets Marla caught up, not only in a family squabble but also another murder.
Jill and Torrie get into is while at Marla’s Salon, they get so loud that Marla comments “if they don’t stop squabbling one of them is going to end up dead by the end of the day”. A more prophetic statement was never said. The basis of this ongoing argument is their co-ownership of a piece of rental property which needs their attention. They can’t agree on what to do with it, and the rest of the family (who really should stay out of it) are giving them more advice and offers of assistance then they need.
All this, while they are getting their hair and nails done in preparation for Jill’s wedding later that afternoon. So it’s a big surprise later when the newlywed couple is finally ready to do the bouquet toss and Torrie is missing. Exasperated by her sister has disappeared Marla suggests that Torrie might have just stepped out to visit the ladies room and that they should move on to the cake cutting ceremony. Walking over to where the three tier cake is sitting on a round table, she notices a door leading to the service area. There is a lovely cloth covering the rolling table and the cake is a work of art. Looking for the cake knife she doesn’t see it. Lifting the tablecloth to check if it had fallen, Marla is shocked to see Torrie’s dead body stretched out under the wedding cake with the cake knife embedded in her chest.
This is the tenth book in Nancy Cohen’s Bad Hair Day mystery series. Each book has gotten progressively better and more puzzling, and intriguing in its depth story line and character enhancements. Each book brings out more and more of Marla’s ability to not only fall over a body, but solve the mystery before the professionals.
FTC Full Disclosure: I received this book from the author, who only asked for a fair and impartial review.
May 21, 2012
Hairstylist Marla Shore is quite excited to be part of her friend Jill’s wedding party. Marla’s own wedding is scheduled for only a few weeks away, but she’s more than delighted to assist her friend. Of course Marla’s own schedule is impossible – between both weddings, moving to a new home, and expanding her hair salon – the last thing she needs is a murder investigation, but that’s exactly what’s thrown her way when Jill’s sister, Torrie, turns up dead at the wedding reception.
Jill begs Marla for her help in investigating the murder. After all, Marla has more experience than the police in investigating crimes these days. She discovers there were quite a few people who would want to kill Torrie, including her good friend Jill. Marla begins to step on many toes as she continues questioning all the suspects.
Meanwhile, Marla’s wedding draws closer and her fiancé, Dalton, who happens to be a police detective, is getting angrier and angrier at her involvement in this murder case. Not to mention it becomes clear that Marla angered the wrong person and has now become the target of a killer. Will she even make it to her own wedding alive?
This is the tenth book of Nancy J. Cohen’s “A Bad Hair Day Mystery” series and I loved it! I haven’t read the previous nine books, which is unusual for me, but it really didn’t matter - at least not as far as the storyline went. I didn’t need the previous books to read this one, but I would like to read about Marla and Dalton’s relationship. Fortunately, I have the first book on my Nook and I’ll definitely be continuing from there.
Marla Shore is a likeable and strong heroine. Although scared for her safety, I did understand her motivation. I loved how Dalton stood behind her and was supportive. A great couple!
The story is laced with humor, romance and mystery. It’s a quick, fast-paced book set in beautiful South Florida. For a few hours, I felt like I was on vacation. It’s a great read to escape from everyday life. It will keep you smiling through the entire book.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Jill begs Marla for her help in investigating the murder. After all, Marla has more experience than the police in investigating crimes these days. She discovers there were quite a few people who would want to kill Torrie, including her good friend Jill. Marla begins to step on many toes as she continues questioning all the suspects.
Meanwhile, Marla’s wedding draws closer and her fiancé, Dalton, who happens to be a police detective, is getting angrier and angrier at her involvement in this murder case. Not to mention it becomes clear that Marla angered the wrong person and has now become the target of a killer. Will she even make it to her own wedding alive?
This is the tenth book of Nancy J. Cohen’s “A Bad Hair Day Mystery” series and I loved it! I haven’t read the previous nine books, which is unusual for me, but it really didn’t matter - at least not as far as the storyline went. I didn’t need the previous books to read this one, but I would like to read about Marla and Dalton’s relationship. Fortunately, I have the first book on my Nook and I’ll definitely be continuing from there.
Marla Shore is a likeable and strong heroine. Although scared for her safety, I did understand her motivation. I loved how Dalton stood behind her and was supportive. A great couple!
The story is laced with humor, romance and mystery. It’s a quick, fast-paced book set in beautiful South Florida. For a few hours, I felt like I was on vacation. It’s a great read to escape from everyday life. It will keep you smiling through the entire book.
FTC Disclosure: The author provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 26, 2012
Marla Shore is a bridesmaid at her friend Jill's wedding and does all of the hair styling as well. During the salon time before the wedding, Marla picks up on tension between Jill and her sister Torrie. At the wedding venue, Torrie also gets into it with a photographer from the magazine she works at and a rival reporter. After a lot of drama, Jill gets married and Marla goes to find the cake knife at the reception. She finds it, but it has been repurposed as a murder weapon in Torrie's chest. Marla's fiance Dalton, a police detective, is on the scene and keeps it secure until the locals arrive.
Dalton and Marla have their own wedding to plan and he chides her about getting involved in this murder. Marla has enough on her plate with semi-feuding mothers-in-law, getting flowers, expanding guest lists, etc, but being Jill's friend, she wants to help. Soon she is in up to her neck with photographers, reporters, florists and realtors, all involved with Jill and Torrie, and all having a possible reason to commit murder.
I love this series and this is a great addition. Marla tries to stay out of these murders but she just can't. Dalton is exasperated but supportive for the most part, although he is acting a little strange over their wedding. Marla has to deal with frazzled friends, a molotov cocktail in her salon, an old "friend" of Dalton's and planning the wedding. It is all a wonderful mix of mayhem and romance that Ms. Cohen works into a lovely mystery. I hope the next one comes sooner than later!
Dalton and Marla have their own wedding to plan and he chides her about getting involved in this murder. Marla has enough on her plate with semi-feuding mothers-in-law, getting flowers, expanding guest lists, etc, but being Jill's friend, she wants to help. Soon she is in up to her neck with photographers, reporters, florists and realtors, all involved with Jill and Torrie, and all having a possible reason to commit murder.
I love this series and this is a great addition. Marla tries to stay out of these murders but she just can't. Dalton is exasperated but supportive for the most part, although he is acting a little strange over their wedding. Marla has to deal with frazzled friends, a molotov cocktail in her salon, an old "friend" of Dalton's and planning the wedding. It is all a wonderful mix of mayhem and romance that Ms. Cohen works into a lovely mystery. I hope the next one comes sooner than later!
January 20, 2012
Shear Murder is a fun mystery/romance. There is quite a bit of detailed wedding information because the character, Marla, is not only a bridesmaid in a wedding, but also planning her own wedding.
Imagine finding a dead body under the wedding cake table! Suspects abound in this story, and Marla is well know by local police as someone who likes to get involved. I think that there was maybe a little too much information gained by eavesdropping, but Marla is eager to solve the crime.
I was a little worried when I saw that the book contained just over two pages of a Cast of Characters with the names and brief bio of everyone in the book (including pets!), but keeping track of everyone was not a problem even without the list.
This is the tenth in the “Bad Hair Day” mystery series, but it is very much a stand alone. This was the first in the series that I read and I never felt like I didn’t know something that had happened in the past. I am not sure if this is the last in the series, but if it is, fans will be pleased.
Imagine finding a dead body under the wedding cake table! Suspects abound in this story, and Marla is well know by local police as someone who likes to get involved. I think that there was maybe a little too much information gained by eavesdropping, but Marla is eager to solve the crime.
I was a little worried when I saw that the book contained just over two pages of a Cast of Characters with the names and brief bio of everyone in the book (including pets!), but keeping track of everyone was not a problem even without the list.
This is the tenth in the “Bad Hair Day” mystery series, but it is very much a stand alone. This was the first in the series that I read and I never felt like I didn’t know something that had happened in the past. I am not sure if this is the last in the series, but if it is, fans will be pleased.
April 6, 2012
I used to like Nancy Cohen's books, but with the Bad Hair Day series, that has changed. There are conversations don't follow the subject, people talking and suddenly someone chimes in with a completely off-the-wall remark, the detective (soon-to-be-husband) is upset because his wife-2-b (Marla) isn't concentrating on her upcoming wedding, and he turns around and disappears for 2 late nights and is found holding hands with an old flame. The story is difficult to follow, I didn't like the characters. One sister says her husband can take care of her business affairs, and the next page she gets angry and says she cannot depend on him for anything and you get the idea she is planning on a divorce.
Marla, who just grabs control of the crime, gets upset when her fiancee doesn't share everything about the crime with her, then contemplates breaking into a business to look at some photographs. She just blunders around, causes one murder, and later says, it's in the past, I'm looking towards the future (more or less). Not an enjoyable read.
Marla, who just grabs control of the crime, gets upset when her fiancee doesn't share everything about the crime with her, then contemplates breaking into a business to look at some photographs. She just blunders around, causes one murder, and later says, it's in the past, I'm looking towards the future (more or less). Not an enjoyable read.
February 12, 2012
The South Florida Hair Stylist and Spa Owner, Marla Shore is swamped with weddings. Not only her friend, Jill, but, her very own wedding to Dalton Vail, a Homicide Detective.
With a zillion details to deal with, Marla gets involved with a dispute between Jill and Jill's sister, Torrie about property that they have inherited. It is very obvious that the sisters are at odds with each other. Even as they drive to the wedding location at a beautiful orchid garden, Jill implores Marla to ask Torrie to listen to common sense.
The wedding is lovely until the cake ceremony, when Torrie is found dead. Who finds the body? Poor Marla of course.
I found the details about the Jewish wedding fascinating and also the trivia facts about orchids. I would have enjoyed a bit more of these facts than the family squabbling where I was not so keen on Marla being involved.
I do enjoy these books and look forward to the next one as Mrs. Vail continues her life.
With a zillion details to deal with, Marla gets involved with a dispute between Jill and Jill's sister, Torrie about property that they have inherited. It is very obvious that the sisters are at odds with each other. Even as they drive to the wedding location at a beautiful orchid garden, Jill implores Marla to ask Torrie to listen to common sense.
The wedding is lovely until the cake ceremony, when Torrie is found dead. Who finds the body? Poor Marla of course.
I found the details about the Jewish wedding fascinating and also the trivia facts about orchids. I would have enjoyed a bit more of these facts than the family squabbling where I was not so keen on Marla being involved.
I do enjoy these books and look forward to the next one as Mrs. Vail continues her life.
December 30, 2011
I did not know this was a series until I looked up Nancy to see if there were more books. Shear Murder is the last book in the series and for me never reading the other books I thought this was a fantastic book on it's own. A wedding, murder, list of quirky suspects, and Marla Shore trying to figure it all out before her own wedding takes place. I really enjoyed every page of this book. I will tell you this the the 243 page book goes very fast I read it in two days only because I am a mom with two little ones lol. I highly recommend this book to those who LOVE adventure.
I rated this book a 4 out of 5
I rated this book a 4 out of 5
January 7, 2012
For readers of cozy glitz literature, this could be a satisfying series. But for the average reader, dropped from a great height into the tenth book of the series, it is a day’s work to study the menu of characters, some of whom have been married before. It would be an advantage to have read the previous nine mysteries to get used to the plethora of characters clogging the action. Rife with minutia and wedding flutter, the actual emotional impact of murder and crime are lost in the fluff of materialistic clutter.
Maggie
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance and More
https://www.coffeetimeromance.com/Boo...
Maggie
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance and More
https://www.coffeetimeromance.com/Boo...
January 6, 2015
In Cohen’s mystery novel, salon owner Marla Shore is busy. She’s planning her upcoming nuptials as well as serving as hairdresser at her friend’s wedding. Set on Orchid Isle, the view is spectacular for her friend’s wedding until murder disrupts the festivities.
Torrie Miller, the matron-of-honor—and the bride’s sister—is found stabbed with the wedding cake knife. With a long list of enemies there’s no shortage of suspects as Marla takes on solving this murder in between planning seating charts and selecting gowns for her own wedding to Lieutenant Dalton Vail.
Fast-paced, creative, believable charact3ers—a wonderful addition to the A Bad Hair Day Mystery series.
Torrie Miller, the matron-of-honor—and the bride’s sister—is found stabbed with the wedding cake knife. With a long list of enemies there’s no shortage of suspects as Marla takes on solving this murder in between planning seating charts and selecting gowns for her own wedding to Lieutenant Dalton Vail.
Fast-paced, creative, believable charact3ers—a wonderful addition to the A Bad Hair Day Mystery series.
February 22, 2012
Absolutely funny and easy read. One of those books you grab and can read in a few hours because its so easy to continue reading. The author does a good job with the characters and even though I had never read a book by her it was easy to follow the story line and thus it stands alone and does not need to be read as part of a series. Great book, enjoyable read!
December 8, 2011
I have enjoyed this entire Bad Hair Day Mystery series, but this last one might be my favorite. A wedding, a murder, a list of quirky suspects, and Marla Shore once again trying to figure it all out before her own wedding takes place. I recomment this book!
February 2, 2015
Great is all I have to say
This one is good. Many possibles, twists and turns. I like these books as the themes are all Love and kindness. But is a great story as well.
This one is good. Many possibles, twists and turns. I like these books as the themes are all Love and kindness. But is a great story as well.
March 11, 2021
Really fun cozy mystery. Books can be read in any order. There are lots of characters, but there's a handy list of characters in the front of the book should you forget who's who.
Marla is a hairdresser in Florida, with her own salon. She's planning to open a spa and marry her police detective boyfriend, as well as solving her friend's sister's murder...more or less at the same time!
I really enjoyed the suspense and investigating. Marla actually snoops around, asking questions that alternately alarm her boyfriend, and make him proud. She doesn't go so far as actual B&E (at least not in this book, but maybe she does in other stories), but she considers it, which I thought was really fun. She actively seeks out clues, instead of stumbling upon them. I really enjoyed that aspect of the plot.
I also liked the Florida setting, which is known to be quite quirky and unique, and this story is no exception. The plot involves orchids, and apparently orchid collectors are a very...intense bunch. I learned a little bit about orchids, which was interesting as well as adding to the plot.
Another thing I enjoyed was the fact that the lead character is Jewish. There's a smattering of Yiddish, plus a little bit about Jewish wedding customs (and funerals). I don't think I've ever read a novel with a Jewish lead character, and as a non-Jew, I found it really interesting and a bit refreshing.
I'm definitely going to have to read more adventures with Marla Shore!
Marla is a hairdresser in Florida, with her own salon. She's planning to open a spa and marry her police detective boyfriend, as well as solving her friend's sister's murder...more or less at the same time!
I really enjoyed the suspense and investigating. Marla actually snoops around, asking questions that alternately alarm her boyfriend, and make him proud. She doesn't go so far as actual B&E (at least not in this book, but maybe she does in other stories), but she considers it, which I thought was really fun. She actively seeks out clues, instead of stumbling upon them. I really enjoyed that aspect of the plot.
I also liked the Florida setting, which is known to be quite quirky and unique, and this story is no exception. The plot involves orchids, and apparently orchid collectors are a very...intense bunch. I learned a little bit about orchids, which was interesting as well as adding to the plot.
Another thing I enjoyed was the fact that the lead character is Jewish. There's a smattering of Yiddish, plus a little bit about Jewish wedding customs (and funerals). I don't think I've ever read a novel with a Jewish lead character, and as a non-Jew, I found it really interesting and a bit refreshing.
I'm definitely going to have to read more adventures with Marla Shore!
July 30, 2022
This was a most enjoyable read. I'm exhausted trying to keep up with Marla and her wedding, her sleuthing, her new day spa, her damaged salon....
I won this book from the author and was happy to get back into the Bad Hair Day series - I'd read and enjoyed several before, but as so often happens got sidetracked away, so this is a good nudge to get back and read the ones I missed.
The murder occurs at Marla's friend Jill's wedding - held at the Grand Opening of a nature and orchid preserve, covered by a fashion reporter and photographer, and with a plethora of guests. Thank goodness the author provided a list of characters at the front of the book - it helped remind me of the players, all of whom were necessary for this robust plot. There are a good number of red herrings, and secondary plots, which kept my interest - but in the end it all came together with a satisfactory resolution to the murder. And, the book ended with Marla's wedding, which was perfect.
I also very much enjoyed learning about Jewish customs for weddings and funerals - it not only added a depth to Marla's character, but gave me a better appreciation of a religion not my own.
All in all, an enjoyable and recommended, read.
I won this book from the author and was happy to get back into the Bad Hair Day series - I'd read and enjoyed several before, but as so often happens got sidetracked away, so this is a good nudge to get back and read the ones I missed.
The murder occurs at Marla's friend Jill's wedding - held at the Grand Opening of a nature and orchid preserve, covered by a fashion reporter and photographer, and with a plethora of guests. Thank goodness the author provided a list of characters at the front of the book - it helped remind me of the players, all of whom were necessary for this robust plot. There are a good number of red herrings, and secondary plots, which kept my interest - but in the end it all came together with a satisfactory resolution to the murder. And, the book ended with Marla's wedding, which was perfect.
I also very much enjoyed learning about Jewish customs for weddings and funerals - it not only added a depth to Marla's character, but gave me a better appreciation of a religion not my own.
All in all, an enjoyable and recommended, read.
April 4, 2025
Thank you to Book Launch Party group on FB, the author and the publisher.
What's a wedding without a murder? A happy one.
Jill, Marla's friend is getting married and she's one of the bridesmaids. Jill's sister Torrie is the victim but who killed her?
To make it all worse, Marla herself is getting married in a few weeks to her detective fiancé Dalton who's not only busy working Torrie's case but others as well. Then her salon is practically destroyed by a Molotov cocktail. Just what she needs. Can it be related to Torrie's murder?
Dalton always tells her to keep out of his investigations but she can't help it. Mostly he tolerates her being involved. There are a few subplots going here with Torrie's co-workers and the venues owner where Torrie was supposed to get married and orchids and land ownings (Torrie and Jills). It's a little all over the place but it's not confusing.
The ending tied up nicely in many ways!
What's a wedding without a murder? A happy one.
Jill, Marla's friend is getting married and she's one of the bridesmaids. Jill's sister Torrie is the victim but who killed her?
To make it all worse, Marla herself is getting married in a few weeks to her detective fiancé Dalton who's not only busy working Torrie's case but others as well. Then her salon is practically destroyed by a Molotov cocktail. Just what she needs. Can it be related to Torrie's murder?
Dalton always tells her to keep out of his investigations but she can't help it. Mostly he tolerates her being involved. There are a few subplots going here with Torrie's co-workers and the venues owner where Torrie was supposed to get married and orchids and land ownings (Torrie and Jills). It's a little all over the place but it's not confusing.
The ending tied up nicely in many ways!
January 20, 2023
Ok, but the lead, Marla, is not really appealing. She feels it's her calling to search for justice. Her meddling might have even caused another death! But oh well, cause she's getting married? Really?
She just ran all over being very annoying but not in a cute, Colombo type way but really obnoxious. She needed to calm down. I felt she was way too pushy and even contemplating breaking into a building. She was just unlikable, honestly. Plus she could not stop talking about her religion and how they did stuff. I love religion and studying it but don't need a lesson when I'm attending a funeral in a book. At this point, it's the twelfth installment, we know her religion and it doesn't need to be taught to us again.
She just ran all over being very annoying but not in a cute, Colombo type way but really obnoxious. She needed to calm down. I felt she was way too pushy and even contemplating breaking into a building. She was just unlikable, honestly. Plus she could not stop talking about her religion and how they did stuff. I love religion and studying it but don't need a lesson when I'm attending a funeral in a book. At this point, it's the twelfth installment, we know her religion and it doesn't need to be taught to us again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2018
I'm not normally a fan of "cozy" mysteries, but Nancy Cohen avoids the overly saccharine cuteness of some I've read. Her protagonist is a real person. And while as with any amateur sleuth series, the number of murders per person in the sleuth's immediate circle stretches credulity, Ms Cohen creates a realistic plot, realistic reasons for Marla Shore to get involved and a realistic outcome.
July 22, 2019
i love this series! Marla is trying to stay focused on her upcoming wedding, but of course murder happens! This was a fun read with complex storyline and interesting characters. Lots of twists and turns, I never expected the culprit who committed the murder! I'm on to the next story in the series!
May 22, 2023
This was my first read in this series. It was good but I think I might have enjoyed more if I started with the first book in the series. I think I may have learned a little more information on all the characters and their backgrounds. All in all I still enjoyed the story.
December 21, 2018
Really enjoy this author books. I have re-read her books many times.
August 9, 2021
I really enjoyed the previous books in the series, but this one fell flat with me.
October 2, 2021
This is the usual plot about the "nosy" woman who stick her nose into a crime. I liked the characters and there is an abundance of suspects. A quick read with a believable ending.
February 6, 2017
I hate giving 1 Star ratings, yet I also hate being dishonest when I review a book.
This mystery was a huge miss for me. The victim and every one of the suspects ranged from despicable to thoroughly unlikeable (without a whole lot of variance) yet I preferred all of them to Marla, the sleuth. Sanctimonious, pious, shrewish I could maybe live with, but rude? No. Her internalizations are all bitchy - some downright mean - and at one point she even offers to cut the hair of a lady whose house she drops in on (the drop-in was to gather clues. The hair was because she assessed the woman's cut to be "unflattering". Why, thanks there, Fabio). Yet Marla's harsh insights never appear to cross the border and turn inward; instead she seems to view herself as the perfect(yet put-upon) fiancé, the perfect stepmother with a perfect stepkid, she has a perfect fiancé, and her salon and all its employees are pretty damned perfect too.
Marla, I sincerely wish someone would jam a cake knife into your chest too.
Needless, mini info-dumps abounded (why is it necessary to know that she 'stuck the key into her jeans pocket - because she'd changed into jeans and a sweater'?) and in the last 1/4 the POV slipped into first-person; 'I sat up straight' the line reads, yet the entire novel is in third-person up till that point.
As stated, sorry to deliver such a scathing assessment, but....nope. Just nope.
This mystery was a huge miss for me. The victim and every one of the suspects ranged from despicable to thoroughly unlikeable (without a whole lot of variance) yet I preferred all of them to Marla, the sleuth. Sanctimonious, pious, shrewish I could maybe live with, but rude? No. Her internalizations are all bitchy - some downright mean - and at one point she even offers to cut the hair of a lady whose house she drops in on (the drop-in was to gather clues. The hair was because she assessed the woman's cut to be "unflattering". Why, thanks there, Fabio). Yet Marla's harsh insights never appear to cross the border and turn inward; instead she seems to view herself as the perfect(yet put-upon) fiancé, the perfect stepmother with a perfect stepkid, she has a perfect fiancé, and her salon and all its employees are pretty damned perfect too.
Marla, I sincerely wish someone would jam a cake knife into your chest too.
Needless, mini info-dumps abounded (why is it necessary to know that she 'stuck the key into her jeans pocket - because she'd changed into jeans and a sweater'?) and in the last 1/4 the POV slipped into first-person; 'I sat up straight' the line reads, yet the entire novel is in third-person up till that point.
As stated, sorry to deliver such a scathing assessment, but....nope. Just nope.
December 17, 2012
Weddings are much on hairdresser Marla’s mind these days, her own ceremony in a few weeks and the one coming up shortly that will unite her friend, Jill, with her husband-to-be—but will it unite Jill with her fractious sister, Torrie? Apparently not, as Marla discovers when she finds Torrie dead and it looks like it’s up to Marla to save her friend from being pegged as a murderer. Of course, she has to fit this in with her own pre-wedding tasks and running her salon. At times, the bad guys are a relief from the simmering hostilities between her and Dalton’s mothers but then someone tries to burn down her shop, a clear sign that she may be getting to close to the killer.
Marla Shore has been one of my favorite amateur sleuths for years and her escapades in Shear Murder are as entertaining as ever. Marla is a little different from your average amateur in a couple of ways. First, the woman is smart and she figures things out with a judicious amount of snooping rather than accidentally tripping over clues as so many do. The other thing that sets her apart is that the man in her life respects her intelligence and, even though he’s a police detective and that sort usually disdains the efforts of such sleuths (and often rightfully so), Dalton actually encourages Marla. How refreshing!
Nancy J. Cohen is an author I always look for and I do hope #11 in the Bad Hair Day Mysteries series will be coming soon.
Marla Shore has been one of my favorite amateur sleuths for years and her escapades in Shear Murder are as entertaining as ever. Marla is a little different from your average amateur in a couple of ways. First, the woman is smart and she figures things out with a judicious amount of snooping rather than accidentally tripping over clues as so many do. The other thing that sets her apart is that the man in her life respects her intelligence and, even though he’s a police detective and that sort usually disdains the efforts of such sleuths (and often rightfully so), Dalton actually encourages Marla. How refreshing!
Nancy J. Cohen is an author I always look for and I do hope #11 in the Bad Hair Day Mysteries series will be coming soon.
April 14, 2020
Weddings always make Marla Shore shed a tear of joy, especially when she attends her friend Jill’s affair as a member of the bridal party. Marla’s own nuptials are weeks away, and she’s been busy juggling bickering relatives, building a new house with her fiancé, and expanding her hair salon.
The South Florida stylist is following her To Do list just fine until an unexpected event unravels her carefully laid plans. At Jill’s wedding reception, Marla discovers the matron of honor—Jill’s sister Torrie—dead under the cake table, a knife embedded in her chest.
Unfortunately, Jill has a strong motive for murder. She and Torrie co-owned a piece of commercial property, and they’d disagreed on whether to sell or lease the land. Now with Torrie out of the way, Jill’s decision can rule. Or can it? Her relatives may have some say on who gets control, meaning Jill can’t trust any of them.
Torrie knew secrets about her colleagues, too, things they wouldn’t want revealed. But when Marla learns one of those secrets involves Jill’s past, she wonders if her friend is truly innocent. She’d better untangle the snarl of suspects and iron out the clues before the killer highlights her as the next victim.
Shear Murder is a fast-paced humorous mystery that will have you rooting for Marla to walk down the aisle with her groom before another disaster befalls her.
The South Florida stylist is following her To Do list just fine until an unexpected event unravels her carefully laid plans. At Jill’s wedding reception, Marla discovers the matron of honor—Jill’s sister Torrie—dead under the cake table, a knife embedded in her chest.
Unfortunately, Jill has a strong motive for murder. She and Torrie co-owned a piece of commercial property, and they’d disagreed on whether to sell or lease the land. Now with Torrie out of the way, Jill’s decision can rule. Or can it? Her relatives may have some say on who gets control, meaning Jill can’t trust any of them.
Torrie knew secrets about her colleagues, too, things they wouldn’t want revealed. But when Marla learns one of those secrets involves Jill’s past, she wonders if her friend is truly innocent. She’d better untangle the snarl of suspects and iron out the clues before the killer highlights her as the next victim.
Shear Murder is a fast-paced humorous mystery that will have you rooting for Marla to walk down the aisle with her groom before another disaster befalls her.
June 23, 2015
Definitely a Bad Hair Day!
In Book #10 of the Bad Hair Day Series, Shear Murder begins with main character Marla Shore helping her friend Jill primp for her wedding. Jill's wedding will be taking place on the opening day of the new Orchid Isle resort. Unfortunately, the wedding is disrupted by the discovery of the murder of Jill's sister, Torrie. Marla, of course, becomes involved with seeking justice for Torrie's murder all while trying to plan her own wedding to fiancee, Dalton in a few weeks. Not only does Marla have to contend with sorting out different clues regarding the murder, but also must deal with her's & Dalton's mothers, who have very definite ideas regarding the details of her upcoming wedding. There are all sorts of twists & turns before the actual murderer is revealed. Luis & the rest of the salon staff play only a minor role in this book, however, I was glad to see the relationship between Dalton's daughter, Brianna, going strong.
I will quote from the book jacket as I absolutely agree, "Shear Murder is a fast paced humorous mystery that will have you rooting for Marla to walk down the aisle with her groom before another disaster befalls her." This book is a definite must read!!!
In Book #10 of the Bad Hair Day Series, Shear Murder begins with main character Marla Shore helping her friend Jill primp for her wedding. Jill's wedding will be taking place on the opening day of the new Orchid Isle resort. Unfortunately, the wedding is disrupted by the discovery of the murder of Jill's sister, Torrie. Marla, of course, becomes involved with seeking justice for Torrie's murder all while trying to plan her own wedding to fiancee, Dalton in a few weeks. Not only does Marla have to contend with sorting out different clues regarding the murder, but also must deal with her's & Dalton's mothers, who have very definite ideas regarding the details of her upcoming wedding. There are all sorts of twists & turns before the actual murderer is revealed. Luis & the rest of the salon staff play only a minor role in this book, however, I was glad to see the relationship between Dalton's daughter, Brianna, going strong.
I will quote from the book jacket as I absolutely agree, "Shear Murder is a fast paced humorous mystery that will have you rooting for Marla to walk down the aisle with her groom before another disaster befalls her." This book is a definite must read!!!
May 19, 2013
"Shear murder "is a wonderful combination of mystery, murder and romance with a touch of humor.
Marla Shore a South Florida beautician is getting married to detective Dalton Vail, although busy with her own wedding she volunteers to be a bridesmaid at her friend Jill's wedding. Shockingly, at Jill's lovely reception, under the cake table Marla finds the bride's sister Torrie with the cake knife in her chest. Jill is suspected because she had the motive to kill her sister since they had an argument over some valuable propriety they both owned.
Despite her fiancé dislike of her involvement in the case Marla decides to go on with the investigation sorting out different clues regarding the murder.
This book is exciting and engaging as you wish for Marla to walk down the aisle with her groom without further complications. I was thoroughly entertained by this book and had difficulties in putting it down. I highly recommended it!
Marla Shore a South Florida beautician is getting married to detective Dalton Vail, although busy with her own wedding she volunteers to be a bridesmaid at her friend Jill's wedding. Shockingly, at Jill's lovely reception, under the cake table Marla finds the bride's sister Torrie with the cake knife in her chest. Jill is suspected because she had the motive to kill her sister since they had an argument over some valuable propriety they both owned.
Despite her fiancé dislike of her involvement in the case Marla decides to go on with the investigation sorting out different clues regarding the murder.
This book is exciting and engaging as you wish for Marla to walk down the aisle with her groom without further complications. I was thoroughly entertained by this book and had difficulties in putting it down. I highly recommended it!
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