“Mother-Daughter Murder Night” about love, relationships, and death

Maya Dickerson - Web and Social Media Manager

“Mother-Daughter Murder Night” by Nina Simon is an engaging novel that, once you start reading, you can’t put down. This book follows a grandma, mom, and daughter trio as they solve a murder in their town. The characters are diverse and interesting, and the plot is full of unexpected twists.

Each character in this book brings something different to the story. The grandma, Lana, is a powerful businesswoman with an outgoing personality. She was diagnosed with cancer and moved in with her daughter, Beth, and granddaughter, Jack. Beth is a levelheaded nurse in their small town. Jack is a 15-year-old kayak guide who becomes a suspect in the murder. All these different personalities and lifestyles clash, but they come together and support one another. Their relationships feel realistic, which makes the characters likable and interesting.

The author, Nina Simon, creates a vivid picture of the small costal town in California where they live. It is important to the plot as the murder was committed on the water channel where Jack works. Lana and Beth’s living environments contrast and add to the differences between the characters.

Although the characters and setting are well thought out, the plotline tends to drag at points. It is very suspenseful, but slow. There are points where the story escalates, but it takes a lot of background and explaining to get there. The murder mystery itself is dramatic and unique. I would recommend this book for those looking for a quick, exciting escape. 4.5/5 stars.