Monday's Mah Jongg is a Mystery

by Marsha Temlock

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Pub Date 6 Oct 2026 | Archive Date 20 Sep 2026

Köehler Books

General Fiction (Adult) | Humor | Women's Fiction

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Description

In the ancient Chinese game of mah jongg, players must make the most of the tiles they have been given. It's the same in the mystery of life. Anna is desperate for a family after multiple failures to carry to term. Aware that time is running out, she embarks on an IVF journey despite her husband Bert's unwillingness to donate his sperm. Anna appeals to her friends in her weekly Monday mah jongg game to help her find a donor. But to what degree are her friends willing to violate their conscience to help Anna realize her dream of motherhood? And what secret is Bert harboring that makes him opposed to helping the wife he adores? Can the weekly mah jongg game withstand the revelation of secrets that shatter and tumble when play begins?

A Note From the Publisher

Marsha Temlock is the author of "Tuesday's Mah Jongg is More Than a Game." She is also the author of "Your Child's Divorce: What to Expect ... What You Can Do," which was featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and other major publications. She appeared on The Today Show and was interviewed on dozens of talk shows. Her YA novel "The Exile" follows a young Ghanaian girl on her journey to adulthood. She holds master's degrees from NYU and Columbia University. She currently teaches mah jongg at the Norwalk Public Library as a volunteer since her retirement from teaching literature and writing.

Marsha Temlock is the author of "Tuesday's Mah Jongg is More Than a Game." She is also the author of "Your Child's Divorce: What to Expect ... What You Can Do," which was featured in The...

Available Editions

EDITION	Paperback
ISBN	9798897473281
PRICE	$17.95 (USD)
PAGES	172

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Additional Information

Average rating from 3 members

Featured Reviews

Inner L, Reviewer

Monday's Mah Jongg is a Mystery is a charming, character-driven mystery that blends humour, friendship, and just the right amount of intrigue into an enjoyable and heartwarming read.

One of the book's greatest strengths is the wonderful dynamic between the Mah Jongg players. Their conversations feel natural, witty, and full of warmth, making it easy to become invested in their friendships. While the mystery keeps the story moving, the real heart of the novel lies in the relationships these women have built over the years and the unwavering support they offer one another.

The protagonist is an engaging amateur sleuth whose sharp observations and genuine curiosity make her a pleasure to follow. Her interactions with the rest of the group feel authentic, and her personal journey adds another layer to the story without overshadowing the mystery itself.

Even for readers unfamiliar with Mah Jongg, the game is introduced in an accessible and engaging way. It becomes more than simply a backdrop, serving as a clever metaphor for the connections between the characters and the way their lives intertwine. The humour throughout the novel is another highlight, bringing many genuinely enjoyable moments.

The pacing is well balanced, allowing readers to settle comfortably into the characters' world before gradually building the mystery. The story unfolds naturally with enough surprises to maintain interest while preserving the relaxed atmosphere expected from a cosy mystery.

The only minor criticism is that the mystery occasionally takes a back seat to the character interactions. Readers seeking a more complex or high-stakes detective story may find it lighter than expected. Some supporting characters also could have benefited from additional development.

Overall, Monday's Mah Jongg is a delightful, uplifting mystery filled with memorable characters, humour, and heartfelt friendships. It is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy cosy mysteries, women's fiction, and character-focused stories that leave you smiling long after the final page.

Recommended for: Fans of cosy mysteries, women's fiction, book clubs, and readers looking for an entertaining mystery with warmth, humour, and memorable friendships.