A review by jennabeck13
Mother-Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon

funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Mother Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon

⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5/5)

Genre: Mystery 

About 355 pages


Beth lives in Northern California with her daughter, Jack, on a peaceful slough. The slough becomes less peaceful when her mother, Lana, moves in with them while undergoing cancer treatment at Stanford Hospital. The peace diminishes even more when Jack finds a dead body in the slough one day. Her discovery of the body makes her a suspect in the police’s case. In defense of Jack and to help with her boredom, Lana sets out to solve the murder herself. This grandma is determined to clear her granddaughter’s name and gives the cops a run for their money throughout the case.


This was a solid cozy mystery to kick off the fall season. It didn’t have any huge twists and lacked a high suspense level which lowered the rating for me, but overall I did like it. It reminded me a lot of Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers, which I enjoyed earlier this year. I loved the main characters (Beth, Lana, and Jack) and their family dynamic. I would certainly read another book by Simon if she comes out with one, as I see a lot of potential! 


Favorite Quote: “You know how you call me Prima?” Lana finally said. Jack nodded, too fast. “If it hurts your feelings, I could call you something else—” “No. I like it. In opera, prima donnas are the stars. Leading ladies. Some people say they’re demanding, but that’s just another way of describing women who have power, women who know their own worth.”



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