Mrs. Kaplan and the Matzoh Ball of Death
by Mark Reuthlinger


This is simply a mystery, well plotted and delivered. I finished this is one setting and for me that is unusual. I do however appreciate a fast read every now and again.

What did I like abut the book ? Well for openers I liked the fact t hat he used older characters to be his detectives and solve the mystery. The story is set in a retirement facility so  there are plenty of older characters to choose from. And I'm glad that for the most part he did.  He only brought in younger characters when it was absolutely necessary, and when he did, they were well written and likeable. Bravo. The story actually revolves around solving a mystery. There are no current event headlines to push their way in to the story as happens in so many stories. Of course we call those thrillers now a days ! This one stays true.

What I really disliked about the book was the constant insertion of Yiddish and the necessary translations. It took away from the flow of the story and stereotyped older Jewish people. Both of which I found unnecessary and offensive. He didn't need this to move his story along.

Notwithstanding, the book has its charms. It is well written, plot and characters and I think that you will enjoy it. It is book club material, but it will satisfy the need for  a good who done it !

Janie