by Robert Walch

The Quilter’s Kitchen (Simon & Schuster, $19.95) by Jennifer Chiaverini is the latest novel in the popular Elm Creek Quilts series. What sets this work apart from its predecessors is the fact that the author skillfully wraps her story around over 90 recipes.

Anna Del Maso has just been named the head chef for the popular quilting retreat in Waterford, Pa. Elm Creek Manor has a rich culinary heritage but its kitchen has not been updated since the 1940s. As Anna and master quilter Sylvia Bergstrom embark on a major renovation of the kitchen, Sylvia shares stories about the role food has played in the manor’s traditions.

This is a fun little novel that includes lots of simple, practical recipes — a book you can literally sink your teeth into!

In The Lover’s Knot (Plume, $13) by Clare O’Donohue, a young woman finds herself engaged in a new hobby while at the same time trying to solve a murder mystery. Nell Fitzgerald turns to her grandmother and her quilting circle for assistance in trying to figure out who “offed“ a local handyman with a pair of quilting scissors.

As a pattern of clues begins to emerge, one of the prime suspects is Nell’s ex-fiancé, who recently unraveled their wedding plans. Would Nell like to see her old boyfriend tagged with this crime? What do you think?

Kaffe Fassett’s Country Garden Quilts (Taunton Press, $24.95) “presents 20 magnificent quilts bursting with floral themes and his trademark color combinations,” says the publisher. “Based on Fassett’s signature line of Rowan fabrics, the pieces have been designed by some of the world’s finest quilters, including Liza Prior-Lucy, Pauline Smith, and Robert Horton. … Complete instructions for creating each museum-quality quilt are also included. Plus, Fassett draws from his 30 years of experience to offer tips and techniques that every quilter will treasure.”