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Mother-Daughter Murder Night
Nothing brings a family together like a murder next door.
A lighthearted whodunnit about a grandmother-mother-daughter trio of amateur sleuths. Gilmore Girls , but with murder.
High-powered businesswoman Lana Rubicon has a lot to be proud her keen intelligence, impeccable taste, and the L.A. real estate empire she’s built. But when she finds herself trapped 300 miles north of the city, convalescing in a sleepy coastal town with her adult daughter Beth and teenage granddaughter Jack, Lana is stuck counting otters instead of square footage—and hoping that boredom won’t kill her before the cancer does.
Then Jack—tiny in stature but fiercely independent—happens upon a dead body while kayaking. She quickly becomes a suspect in the homicide investigation, and the Rubicon women are thrown into chaos. Beth thinks Lana should focus on recovery, but Lana has a better idea. She’ll pull on her wig, find the true murderer, protect her family, and prove she still has power. With Jack and Beth’s help, Lana uncovers a web of lies, family vendettas, and land disputes lurking beneath the surface of a community populated by folksy conservationists and wealthy ranchers. But as their amateur snooping advances into ever-more dangerous territory, the headstrong Rubicon women must learn to do the one thing they’ve always depend on each other.
A lighthearted whodunnit about a grandmother-mother-daughter trio of amateur sleuths. Gilmore Girls , but with murder.
High-powered businesswoman Lana Rubicon has a lot to be proud her keen intelligence, impeccable taste, and the L.A. real estate empire she’s built. But when she finds herself trapped 300 miles north of the city, convalescing in a sleepy coastal town with her adult daughter Beth and teenage granddaughter Jack, Lana is stuck counting otters instead of square footage—and hoping that boredom won’t kill her before the cancer does.
Then Jack—tiny in stature but fiercely independent—happens upon a dead body while kayaking. She quickly becomes a suspect in the homicide investigation, and the Rubicon women are thrown into chaos. Beth thinks Lana should focus on recovery, but Lana has a better idea. She’ll pull on her wig, find the true murderer, protect her family, and prove she still has power. With Jack and Beth’s help, Lana uncovers a web of lies, family vendettas, and land disputes lurking beneath the surface of a community populated by folksy conservationists and wealthy ranchers. But as their amateur snooping advances into ever-more dangerous territory, the headstrong Rubicon women must learn to do the one thing they’ve always depend on each other.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published September 5, 2023
6113 people are currently reading
107423 people want to read
About the author
Nina Simon
10 books1,052 followersI write crime stories about strong women. My first novel, MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT, is a New York Times bestselling mystery about a grandma, single mom, and teenage girl who come together to solve the murder of a naturalist who washes up in the Monterey Bay.
Writing has always been my joy. In college, I was an electrical engineering student by day and a slam poet by night. After a brief stint at NASA, I started designing interactive exhibits and eventually became a museum director. I wrote two books of nonfiction about creating participatory, relevant cultural institutions. Nonprofits were my "real" job; writing was on the side.
Then, my mom got sick. I quit my job to help care for her, and I found myself turning to fiction as a way to escape and find some pleasure during a hard time. My mom and I both always loved mysteries, and I decided to try to write one myself, with a detective/hero based on my mother. Now, my mom is doing better, and I'm gratefully spending my days reading, writing, and caring for my family.
I live off-the-grid in the Santa Cruz mountains. You can find out more about me at https://ninaksimon.com/
I write a very occasional newsletter at https://ninaksimon.substack.com/
Writing has always been my joy. In college, I was an electrical engineering student by day and a slam poet by night. After a brief stint at NASA, I started designing interactive exhibits and eventually became a museum director. I wrote two books of nonfiction about creating participatory, relevant cultural institutions. Nonprofits were my "real" job; writing was on the side.
Then, my mom got sick. I quit my job to help care for her, and I found myself turning to fiction as a way to escape and find some pleasure during a hard time. My mom and I both always loved mysteries, and I decided to try to write one myself, with a detective/hero based on my mother. Now, my mom is doing better, and I'm gratefully spending my days reading, writing, and caring for my family.
I live off-the-grid in the Santa Cruz mountains. You can find out more about me at https://ninaksimon.com/
I write a very occasional newsletter at https://ninaksimon.substack.com/
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May 15, 2023I am honored and excited that this book is in your hands. I wrote it as a love letter to my mother, as a way to help us connect, heal, and find some joy together during the early days of a tough cancer diagnosis. My mom and I have always loved murder mysteries. When she got sick, I decided to write a story with someone like her--a tough, smart California businesswoman--as the hero. We brainstormed about the story and the characters in chemo clinics and hospital waiting rooms. I wrote, and she read, and we both got stronger through it.
There's murder in this book, but also a lot of love: for the Monterey Bay, for misty mornings on paddle boards, for cold beers and hot burritos. Most of all, there's family love between the grandmother, mother, and teen daughter at the center of the story. It isn't always easy to live with our mothers--or our daughters. I hope you find love, in all its messiness, in these pages.
There's murder in this book, but also a lot of love: for the Monterey Bay, for misty mornings on paddle boards, for cold beers and hot burritos. Most of all, there's family love between the grandmother, mother, and teen daughter at the center of the story. It isn't always easy to live with our mothers--or our daughters. I hope you find love, in all its messiness, in these pages.
October 31, 2023
This message is for Reese Witherspoon and Reese only. Everyone else can keep scrolling.
Reese- are you safe? What does this author have on you that would force you to recommend this book? Blink twice if you are being held hostage and forced to recommend sub par mild toned literature.
This book sucked- plain and simple. It was incredibly superficial and scratched a few larger themes without allowing the characters or readers to go there. If I survived a plane crash in the rural Canadian Rockies and this was the only thing I had to read for the next 20 years - I would sooner start a camp fire with these pages. Boring is an understatement. I’m concerned that so many people liked it. And to those people I only have one question, a tale as old as time- Have you tried reading anything else?
Reese- are you safe? What does this author have on you that would force you to recommend this book? Blink twice if you are being held hostage and forced to recommend sub par mild toned literature.
This book sucked- plain and simple. It was incredibly superficial and scratched a few larger themes without allowing the characters or readers to go there. If I survived a plane crash in the rural Canadian Rockies and this was the only thing I had to read for the next 20 years - I would sooner start a camp fire with these pages. Boring is an understatement. I’m concerned that so many people liked it. And to those people I only have one question, a tale as old as time- Have you tried reading anything else?
August 7, 2025
This is brilliant, smart, entertaining, dark comedy meets murder mystery with the brilliant dysfunctional family plot of three generations.
An ambitious, workaholic, intelligent grandmother with highly qualified taste, a real estate empress: Lana Rubicon opens her eyes on the floor of her kitchen, barely moving, calling 911. She’s diagnosed with several brain tumors that should be removed immediately. Some of the tumors also split to her lungs which means she has to ask her daughter Beth who is also highly accomplished nurse. She thinks in four times, her treatment process will resolve and she may return back to her old life. Well, she couldn’t be so wrong!
After 4 months passed, she already lost her job and the entire career she’s built and unfortunately she’s still trapped in her daughter’s sleepy coastal town house which is 300 miles north of Cali. She spends her days at the bed of her granddaughter’s bed, spying on people with her binoculars, giving furniture orders to make the place more livable despite Beth’s objections.
One night she sees something alarming via her binoculars, watching a man pushing a wheelbarrow and a few minutes later she hears the splash. Did the man throw someone to the water?
The next day her 15 years old granddaughter Jack who works at the kayaking place finds a dead man in the water. And later two detectives stop by their house making accusatory remarks to Jack about her involvement in this murder mystery. Because there’s a witness tells she was drunk during her job and her recklessness may cause the man lose his life.
Lana is adamant to protect her granddaughter, closing her ears to Beth’s comments about recovery, pulling on her wig, sniffing around to conduct her own investigation. She digs through complex land trust issues, illegal grow operations. On the top of that she has to deal with flirty banters of Kayak Shack owner which is icing on the cake.
Could she do the officers haven’t achieved and find the perpetrator to bring him/ her to justice?
It’s really smart and laugh out loud murder mystery makes you guess the identity of murderer till the end. I truly enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to reading more works of the author in near future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for sharing this brilliant book’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
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An ambitious, workaholic, intelligent grandmother with highly qualified taste, a real estate empress: Lana Rubicon opens her eyes on the floor of her kitchen, barely moving, calling 911. She’s diagnosed with several brain tumors that should be removed immediately. Some of the tumors also split to her lungs which means she has to ask her daughter Beth who is also highly accomplished nurse. She thinks in four times, her treatment process will resolve and she may return back to her old life. Well, she couldn’t be so wrong!
After 4 months passed, she already lost her job and the entire career she’s built and unfortunately she’s still trapped in her daughter’s sleepy coastal town house which is 300 miles north of Cali. She spends her days at the bed of her granddaughter’s bed, spying on people with her binoculars, giving furniture orders to make the place more livable despite Beth’s objections.
One night she sees something alarming via her binoculars, watching a man pushing a wheelbarrow and a few minutes later she hears the splash. Did the man throw someone to the water?
The next day her 15 years old granddaughter Jack who works at the kayaking place finds a dead man in the water. And later two detectives stop by their house making accusatory remarks to Jack about her involvement in this murder mystery. Because there’s a witness tells she was drunk during her job and her recklessness may cause the man lose his life.
Lana is adamant to protect her granddaughter, closing her ears to Beth’s comments about recovery, pulling on her wig, sniffing around to conduct her own investigation. She digs through complex land trust issues, illegal grow operations. On the top of that she has to deal with flirty banters of Kayak Shack owner which is icing on the cake.
Could she do the officers haven’t achieved and find the perpetrator to bring him/ her to justice?
It’s really smart and laugh out loud murder mystery makes you guess the identity of murderer till the end. I truly enjoyed it and I’m looking forward to reading more works of the author in near future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for sharing this brilliant book’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
October 6, 2023
Mother-Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon is a Cozy Mystery Whodunit!
Who doesn't love a fun and entertaining debut novel, I ask you?
If you're looking for an edge-of-your-seat murder mystery, look elsewhere. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty of suspects here and a couple of good twists, but this story is primarily about main character, Lana Rubicon, her adult daughter Beth, and teenage granddaughter Jack, short for Jacqueline Avital Santos Rubicon aka 'Tiny'. She's small.
This was an estranged family until four months ago when Lana called Beth to let her know about her cancer diagnosis. That's when she moved from her fancy condo in Los Angeles to Beth's and Jack's little bungalow above Elkhorn Slough on Monterey Bay.
Surgery first, then three months of chemo, now she's two weeks away from her first scans to check improvement.
With Beth at work, Jack at school, boredom sets in for Lana and watching life outside her window through a set of binoculars is her main pastime. While watching one night, she sees a man with a flashlight pushing a wheelbarrow down the hill to the slough. That can't be good.
The next day, Jack discovers a dead body in the slough while leading a kayaking tour. Questioned by police, Jack becomes the first suspect. Enraged, Lana decides to start her own investigation and Beth and Jack soon jump-in to assist. The female super-sleuthing begins...
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is a cozy-mystery with spots of humor and interesting family dynamics. It seems nothing brings a family together like a little neighborhood murder...or two. Loads of well-drawn characters, especially Grandmother Lana with her wigs, spiked heels, and no-fear determination. What a great character!
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is a debut that was written with a purpose by the California author whose own mother was diagnosed with cancer. This book became their shared project creating much needed joy and focus. Be sure to read the author's Acknowledgments at the end of the book for more details.
Mother-Daughter Murder Night was a welcomed respite after reading a dense and exhausting read. Was this story realistic and believable? Absolutely not. What it was, was easy to read, fun and entertaining. I'll take that over a complicated reading experience, every single time, and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers who look for and desire the same!
4⭐
Thank you to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Nina Simon for an ALC of this book. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
Who doesn't love a fun and entertaining debut novel, I ask you?
If you're looking for an edge-of-your-seat murder mystery, look elsewhere. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty of suspects here and a couple of good twists, but this story is primarily about main character, Lana Rubicon, her adult daughter Beth, and teenage granddaughter Jack, short for Jacqueline Avital Santos Rubicon aka 'Tiny'. She's small.
This was an estranged family until four months ago when Lana called Beth to let her know about her cancer diagnosis. That's when she moved from her fancy condo in Los Angeles to Beth's and Jack's little bungalow above Elkhorn Slough on Monterey Bay.
Surgery first, then three months of chemo, now she's two weeks away from her first scans to check improvement.
With Beth at work, Jack at school, boredom sets in for Lana and watching life outside her window through a set of binoculars is her main pastime. While watching one night, she sees a man with a flashlight pushing a wheelbarrow down the hill to the slough. That can't be good.
The next day, Jack discovers a dead body in the slough while leading a kayaking tour. Questioned by police, Jack becomes the first suspect. Enraged, Lana decides to start her own investigation and Beth and Jack soon jump-in to assist. The female super-sleuthing begins...
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is a cozy-mystery with spots of humor and interesting family dynamics. It seems nothing brings a family together like a little neighborhood murder...or two. Loads of well-drawn characters, especially Grandmother Lana with her wigs, spiked heels, and no-fear determination. What a great character!
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is a debut that was written with a purpose by the California author whose own mother was diagnosed with cancer. This book became their shared project creating much needed joy and focus. Be sure to read the author's Acknowledgments at the end of the book for more details.
Mother-Daughter Murder Night was a welcomed respite after reading a dense and exhausting read. Was this story realistic and believable? Absolutely not. What it was, was easy to read, fun and entertaining. I'll take that over a complicated reading experience, every single time, and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to readers who look for and desire the same!
4⭐
Thank you to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Nina Simon for an ALC of this book. It has been an honor to give my honest and voluntary review.
September 5, 2023
3.75 rounded up!
TW: Cancer
There is nothing that can bond a grandmother-mother-and granddaughter together more than a real life murder!
🕵️♀️🕵️♀️🕵️♀️
Feisty Real Estate investor Lana Rubicon is recovering from brain cancer at her daughter Beth’s home in a sleepy coastal town when her granddaughter Jack, happens upon a dead body while kayaking near their bungalow.
Jack quickly becomes a suspect in the homicide investigation, and Lana, needing a distraction from her chemotherapy, decides to put on her wig, and her steel heeled stilettos to try and find the true murderer, and protect her granddaughter.
Her amateur sleuthing uncovers more than she bargained for, but it also bonds the three together in a way that she never thought was possible.
Although I didn’t find the COZY MYSTERY aspect of the story to be riveting, I did LOVE the family dynamics of the three generations of women, with fierce, formidable Matriarch Lana, STEALING the show!!
You know what else I loved? ❤️🩹
This book was written when the author’s own mother was diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer, and she quit her job to care for her. Losing hope and needing a distraction to bring them joy instead of anxiety, the mystery loving duo started this project. Nina wrote and her mother read and this book was born. (See acknowledgement page)
How special is that? ❤️
A buddy read with DeAnn. Be sure to watch out for her amazing review!
Available NOW!!
Thank You to William Morrow for the gifted copy, provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review.
TW: Cancer
There is nothing that can bond a grandmother-mother-and granddaughter together more than a real life murder!
🕵️♀️🕵️♀️🕵️♀️
Feisty Real Estate investor Lana Rubicon is recovering from brain cancer at her daughter Beth’s home in a sleepy coastal town when her granddaughter Jack, happens upon a dead body while kayaking near their bungalow.
Jack quickly becomes a suspect in the homicide investigation, and Lana, needing a distraction from her chemotherapy, decides to put on her wig, and her steel heeled stilettos to try and find the true murderer, and protect her granddaughter.
Her amateur sleuthing uncovers more than she bargained for, but it also bonds the three together in a way that she never thought was possible.
Although I didn’t find the COZY MYSTERY aspect of the story to be riveting, I did LOVE the family dynamics of the three generations of women, with fierce, formidable Matriarch Lana, STEALING the show!!
You know what else I loved? ❤️🩹
This book was written when the author’s own mother was diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer, and she quit her job to care for her. Losing hope and needing a distraction to bring them joy instead of anxiety, the mystery loving duo started this project. Nina wrote and her mother read and this book was born. (See acknowledgement page)
How special is that? ❤️
A buddy read with DeAnn. Be sure to watch out for her amazing review!
Available NOW!!
Thank You to William Morrow for the gifted copy, provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review.
October 30, 2024
Well, this wasn’t my favorite. The story was a slow-burn for the most part but not in the good way we want it to be. This was neither a cozy Murder mystery or a suspense thriller, which made the read kind of bland.
The writing itself is decent but the actual story is lacking. I found myself actually annoyed several times and that’s just not a thing that happens often when I read. I had to really trudge through at times.
I appreciated the story stemming from the authors own experience with her mother and that was endearing. We follow 3 generations of women who learn to bond after a distant relationship. That’s what I’d say this story is really about…
If you want more of a familial drama / resolving issues and strengthening bonds with a sideline of murder mystery - this might be enjoyable for you.
The writing itself is decent but the actual story is lacking. I found myself actually annoyed several times and that’s just not a thing that happens often when I read. I had to really trudge through at times.
I appreciated the story stemming from the authors own experience with her mother and that was endearing. We follow 3 generations of women who learn to bond after a distant relationship. That’s what I’d say this story is really about…
If you want more of a familial drama / resolving issues and strengthening bonds with a sideline of murder mystery - this might be enjoyable for you.
September 8, 2023
What a clever idea for a story! While the mystery seems to take a backseat to the female relational dynamics, I wasn’t mad about it. If you love a dysfunctional family sprinkled with darker shades of comic relief, this is one you’ll want to pick up stat. I also recommend checking out the author’s note of explanation of how this story was inspired, and how she was able to write the book with her mother’s help brainstorming and bring these characters to life. A nice mystery option for those looking for something lighter during spooky season!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
October 5, 2023
This was just what the doctor ordered! After reading a few duds prior to this book, I was very happy with this lighthearted read about a crime solving mother-daughter-granddaughter trio. This was also Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club pick for September, 2023. So I must thank Reese’s Book Club for this great pick as well! 🕵️
In this story we have Lana Rubicon, who has just been diagnosed with cancer. For her treatments and recovery, she goes to stay with her daughter Beth and her granddaughter Jack. Beth’s house is 300 miles away from L.A.,where Lana originally stays and works at. Lana is bored, and of course she is not happy with her cancer diagnosis. But no worries- because a dead body that floats up in the slough near Jack’s place of employment is going to change all that. And that’s when the three women, our mother-daughter-granddaughter trio, decide to solve this murder on their own!
Lana Rubicon is the star of this book! I had so many laughs and chuckles throughout this story because of her. Yes, this book may have been a bit longer than necessary- but the reason and creation behind this book is just so touching and amazing!
In the Acknowledgments, the author notes that she began writing this book as a distraction when her own mother had cancer. She would write the words, and her mother would read them. What a way to battle cancer together 💪 The author also touched my own heart by writing these words in her acknowledgments, “ Wherever you are, whatever you’re dealing with, I hope this story reaches out and gives you a fierce little hug in the wilderness. I’m rooting for you, and for love.”
Well, Nina Simon- I’m rooting for you too! 🤗
Yes, I recommend this wonderful read!!
I would also like to thank HarperCollins Publishers for sending me an uncorrected proof in the mail, which I had the pleasure of reading!! I was so surprised and happy to find this on my doorstep!
In this story we have Lana Rubicon, who has just been diagnosed with cancer. For her treatments and recovery, she goes to stay with her daughter Beth and her granddaughter Jack. Beth’s house is 300 miles away from L.A.,where Lana originally stays and works at. Lana is bored, and of course she is not happy with her cancer diagnosis. But no worries- because a dead body that floats up in the slough near Jack’s place of employment is going to change all that. And that’s when the three women, our mother-daughter-granddaughter trio, decide to solve this murder on their own!
Lana Rubicon is the star of this book! I had so many laughs and chuckles throughout this story because of her. Yes, this book may have been a bit longer than necessary- but the reason and creation behind this book is just so touching and amazing!
In the Acknowledgments, the author notes that she began writing this book as a distraction when her own mother had cancer. She would write the words, and her mother would read them. What a way to battle cancer together 💪 The author also touched my own heart by writing these words in her acknowledgments, “ Wherever you are, whatever you’re dealing with, I hope this story reaches out and gives you a fierce little hug in the wilderness. I’m rooting for you, and for love.”
Well, Nina Simon- I’m rooting for you too! 🤗
Yes, I recommend this wonderful read!!
I would also like to thank HarperCollins Publishers for sending me an uncorrected proof in the mail, which I had the pleasure of reading!! I was so surprised and happy to find this on my doorstep!
February 10, 2024
I enjoyed this light hearted mystery by Nina Simon it was fun which I needed right now, had quirky characters which made me laugh 😆 & had me turning those pages .
Lana Rubicon had just been diagnosed with cancer , she calls her daughter Beth & goes to live with her & granddaughter Jack(aka) Jacquiline in LA.
Jack finds a body washed up on the 🏖️beach, she calls her mother to come & have a look then Beth calls the police & they look into the murder the body is confirmed as Ricardo Cruz who would want to kill him & why?
Then Lana gets involved with Beth & Jack to solve the crime I found Lana to be the heroine of the family she was funny & sassy to say the least, if you are looking for a light hearted mystery this is for you highly recommended.
Lana Rubicon had just been diagnosed with cancer , she calls her daughter Beth & goes to live with her & granddaughter Jack(aka) Jacquiline in LA.
Jack finds a body washed up on the 🏖️beach, she calls her mother to come & have a look then Beth calls the police & they look into the murder the body is confirmed as Ricardo Cruz who would want to kill him & why?
Then Lana gets involved with Beth & Jack to solve the crime I found Lana to be the heroine of the family she was funny & sassy to say the least, if you are looking for a light hearted mystery this is for you highly recommended.
September 8, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
This fell flat. Boring. Wasn’t invested in any of the characters.
This fell flat. Boring. Wasn’t invested in any of the characters.
January 20, 2026
“Life is a negotiation. With yourself. With others. You can’t sit around waiting for someone else to guess what you want. You have to ask for it, even if it’s scary.”Jack lives with her mother (Beth) in a cozy little house on the edge of the Elkhorn Slough. Her grandmother, Lana, used to be a cutthroat real estate agent but had to take an extreme step back from her work due to a health scare (cancerous tumors).
As Lana waits (and waits) for the treatments to work, she notices something rather odd happening across the slough at 2 am.
"A death sentence. That's what it felt like. Even on the good days, Lana had nothing to do and no one to do it with."
It was rather odd for Lana to see such a sight in the middle of the night, but she pushes it aside...until her granddaughter discovers a dead body in the slough.
"The man was moving fast, down toward the brackish water. The wheelbarrow dipped and surged in and out of view as he charged through the high grass."
Suddenly the police begin closing in and circling their little family like sharks. Well. One thing's for certain, Lana will always be the biggest shark. If the police won't solve the murder, then she will.
I really liked this book! I picked it up purely because of the title - I got a dark comedy buddy-cop vibe from the whole "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" and thought I was going to be reading a wickedly funny book.
This one, while it did have some humorous moments, focused more on solving the murder. And honestly? It worked so well.
Lana was a hilarious character and I really enjoyed reading her various takes on life. She was a wild card, but she knew exactly how to play it.
Lana's brash personality was balanced really well by Jack and Beth. I loved watching the girls all work together to figure out the murderer and I was pleasantly surprised when the murderer was revealed.
I think this one is definitely worth a read!
September 13, 2023
3.5 rounded down - Very, very slow start & really took quite a while to get into. The second half was better, but I’m not a big fan of poor pacing. Anyway, it was an ok mystery & I liked the three of the MC’s and their personal history & struggles, but I really had to struggle myself to connect with them...
June 27, 2025
This title, Mother-Daughter Murder Night, it's catchy, isn't it? Admittedly, it had me intrigued from the get-go.
It just sounds like something I need in my life right now...
Totally kidding. I haven't lost it that bad. Yet...
The truth is, I really knew nothing about this book going in. I had just seen a few friends enjoying it and I had a tremendous amount of FOMO.
At the end of the day, I'm so happy that my complete inability to sit on the sidelines as others enjoy themselves led me to pick up this book.
It's such a fun and engaging, though low-key mystery. I was pulled in by the cast of characters and they definitely ended up being my favorite part.
In this story we follow Lana Rubicon, an L.A. Real Estate mogul, her adult daughter, Beth, and Beth's teenage daughter, Jack. It's a trio that I grew to love.
After a bit of a health scare, Lana is forced to move in with Beth and Jack. Lana and Beth's relationship has been a little strained, they're just very different people, so the situation has them both a bit on edge.
Things get much worse, however, after Jack discovers a dead body while at work.
Jack works as a kayak tour guide on the local waterfront and comes across a young man floating, dead, while out in her kayak. Obviously, it's quite upsetting for the teen.
The police questioning and subsequent interest in Jack in the aftermath of her discovery is even more upsetting for Lana and Beth. The detectives can't possibly suspect that Jack had anything to do with this young man's death, can they?
When it becomes clear that Jack, is in fact, a suspect, Lana takes it upon herself to begin her own investigation, find the real killer and clear their family name.
Jack is all for the amateur sleuthing undertaken by her Grandmother, while Beth definitely would rather let the police do their job. Certainly the evidence will prove Jack's innocence, or will it?
I loved Lana. She stole the show for me. She is an absolute fireball and goals for me when I reach her age. I really enjoyed her character throughout. She added a great level of humor and sass to the story.
I also really enjoyed the set-up of the mystery. The events leading to the sleuthing. It was an intriguing murder, particularly in light of what you find out about the victim. I was curious as to what had happened to him and how his body ended up where it did.
In my opinion, this story would be a good fit for fans of the Finley Donovan series.
Though it's not silly, or slap-stick, like FD, the level of mystery and intrigue is very similar, as well as the level to which interpersonal relationships are explored. It gave me a very similar vibe and entertainment level.
Overall, I found this book to be engaging, fun and really well-written. I am glad that I picked it up and look forward to reading more from this author in the future!
It just sounds like something I need in my life right now...
Totally kidding. I haven't lost it that bad. Yet...
The truth is, I really knew nothing about this book going in. I had just seen a few friends enjoying it and I had a tremendous amount of FOMO.
At the end of the day, I'm so happy that my complete inability to sit on the sidelines as others enjoy themselves led me to pick up this book.
It's such a fun and engaging, though low-key mystery. I was pulled in by the cast of characters and they definitely ended up being my favorite part.
In this story we follow Lana Rubicon, an L.A. Real Estate mogul, her adult daughter, Beth, and Beth's teenage daughter, Jack. It's a trio that I grew to love.
After a bit of a health scare, Lana is forced to move in with Beth and Jack. Lana and Beth's relationship has been a little strained, they're just very different people, so the situation has them both a bit on edge.
Things get much worse, however, after Jack discovers a dead body while at work.
Jack works as a kayak tour guide on the local waterfront and comes across a young man floating, dead, while out in her kayak. Obviously, it's quite upsetting for the teen.
The police questioning and subsequent interest in Jack in the aftermath of her discovery is even more upsetting for Lana and Beth. The detectives can't possibly suspect that Jack had anything to do with this young man's death, can they?
When it becomes clear that Jack, is in fact, a suspect, Lana takes it upon herself to begin her own investigation, find the real killer and clear their family name.
Jack is all for the amateur sleuthing undertaken by her Grandmother, while Beth definitely would rather let the police do their job. Certainly the evidence will prove Jack's innocence, or will it?
I loved Lana. She stole the show for me. She is an absolute fireball and goals for me when I reach her age. I really enjoyed her character throughout. She added a great level of humor and sass to the story.
I also really enjoyed the set-up of the mystery. The events leading to the sleuthing. It was an intriguing murder, particularly in light of what you find out about the victim. I was curious as to what had happened to him and how his body ended up where it did.
In my opinion, this story would be a good fit for fans of the Finley Donovan series.
Though it's not silly, or slap-stick, like FD, the level of mystery and intrigue is very similar, as well as the level to which interpersonal relationships are explored. It gave me a very similar vibe and entertainment level.
Overall, I found this book to be engaging, fun and really well-written. I am glad that I picked it up and look forward to reading more from this author in the future!
July 24, 2023
3 stars
I feel terrible because this is a debut author and I want to give all debuts 5 stars, but this was just meh for me. The writing was pretty good, but the story really dragged and I had to push myself to pick this up. I didn't find the mystery extremely compelling and it was challenging to see so much animosity between Beth & Lana. I was hoping for more of a camaraderie amongst the three generations than there was.
There are a lot more positive reviews, so please take mine with a grain of salt, but the thing that troubled me the most was the intense focus on Jack as the prime suspect so quickly. First, she's 16 years old and I get that horrible crimes can be committed by someone that age, but for the way this book was written I just had trouble following why the police would be so intensely focused on Jack. It was a little puzzling and kind of gave me a bad taste in my mouth that I wasn't able to shake for the rest of the book.
I appreciated the fresh take on a cozy mystery and thought the idea of having three generations solve a case together was a great idea, but I wish it would have been executed a little differently. I wish the author nothing but the best and hope she finds success with this book.
Review Date: 07/24/2023
Publication Date: 09/05/2023
I feel terrible because this is a debut author and I want to give all debuts 5 stars, but this was just meh for me. The writing was pretty good, but the story really dragged and I had to push myself to pick this up. I didn't find the mystery extremely compelling and it was challenging to see so much animosity between Beth & Lana. I was hoping for more of a camaraderie amongst the three generations than there was.
There are a lot more positive reviews, so please take mine with a grain of salt, but the thing that troubled me the most was the intense focus on Jack as the prime suspect so quickly. First, she's 16 years old and I get that horrible crimes can be committed by someone that age, but for the way this book was written I just had trouble following why the police would be so intensely focused on Jack. It was a little puzzling and kind of gave me a bad taste in my mouth that I wasn't able to shake for the rest of the book.
I appreciated the fresh take on a cozy mystery and thought the idea of having three generations solve a case together was a great idea, but I wish it would have been executed a little differently. I wish the author nothing but the best and hope she finds success with this book.
Review Date: 07/24/2023
Publication Date: 09/05/2023
October 7, 2024
This is a Reese’s Book Club pick and a donation to my Little Free Library Shed. And it has an interesting title. One that gives you the feeling that maybe we need to get ourselves comfortable in front of our television set on a Sunday evening with our mother, ready to watch a murder mystery movie with popcorn. 🍿
But, is that what it actually created when readers opened the pages?📃
The author shares in her acknowledgements that the book was “born out of desperation and love” when she discovered that her mother was diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer. So, it was only natural that she would quit her job and take on the humungous task of caring for her mother through her treatment – and at the same time, since they were both mystery lovers, why not write a book. With characters that might have similar challenges.
In this case, the author created a mother character as a tough LA businesswoman, being forced to move in with her daughter and granddaughter, where the grandmother character becomes an unlikely superhero.
And, you have the daughter working with doctors to help heal her mom of the cancer and a mom who is healing from the cancer also helping to solve a murder. Along with a fiercely independent teenager character, the granddaughter. Did you get all that?
3 rather strong women characters.
Question is…does it work?
The daughter and granddaughter have been independent of the grandmother since the daughter was 17. They live in the beautiful setting of Elkhorn Slough a seven-mile arm of the Monterey Bay located half way between the cities of Santa Cruz and Monterey.
As readers, we come to feel along with the daughter and granddaughter how much they love the steep, scraggly hillside that leads down to the cool banks of gravel and sand that then morph into the wetlands right outside their bungalow home. They also love the farmlands that fall on the other side of where they live, and the unique vantage point they share with nature, wildlife and the changing nature of the tides.
How can you not be mesmerized by that description? It is almost as if the Elkhorn Slough is another character to this story.
And now, the expectation is that they are going to take on the grandmother, and have her live with them through her cancer treatment – along with dealing with a pesky murder investigation.
The story starts off slow, and meanders a bit, but eventually comes to a satisfying conclusion.
3.5 stars rounded up.
But, is that what it actually created when readers opened the pages?📃
The author shares in her acknowledgements that the book was “born out of desperation and love” when she discovered that her mother was diagnosed with metastatic lung cancer. So, it was only natural that she would quit her job and take on the humungous task of caring for her mother through her treatment – and at the same time, since they were both mystery lovers, why not write a book. With characters that might have similar challenges.
In this case, the author created a mother character as a tough LA businesswoman, being forced to move in with her daughter and granddaughter, where the grandmother character becomes an unlikely superhero.
And, you have the daughter working with doctors to help heal her mom of the cancer and a mom who is healing from the cancer also helping to solve a murder. Along with a fiercely independent teenager character, the granddaughter. Did you get all that?
3 rather strong women characters.
Question is…does it work?
The daughter and granddaughter have been independent of the grandmother since the daughter was 17. They live in the beautiful setting of Elkhorn Slough a seven-mile arm of the Monterey Bay located half way between the cities of Santa Cruz and Monterey.
As readers, we come to feel along with the daughter and granddaughter how much they love the steep, scraggly hillside that leads down to the cool banks of gravel and sand that then morph into the wetlands right outside their bungalow home. They also love the farmlands that fall on the other side of where they live, and the unique vantage point they share with nature, wildlife and the changing nature of the tides.
How can you not be mesmerized by that description? It is almost as if the Elkhorn Slough is another character to this story.
And now, the expectation is that they are going to take on the grandmother, and have her live with them through her cancer treatment – along with dealing with a pesky murder investigation.
The story starts off slow, and meanders a bit, but eventually comes to a satisfying conclusion.
3.5 stars rounded up.
October 23, 2024
2.5 stars
Too cute and cozy for me.
A woman undergoing cancer treatment moves in with her daughter and granddaughter. Together, the three of them find themselves tangled up in a murder investigation.
I liked the idea behind this novel of three generations of women in one family working together to solve a crime. The grandmother-mother-daughter relationships were interesting. I enjoyed following each of their personal journeys in their relationships with one another as well as their personal growth. I was intrigued by the women and found them entertaining even if I wasn’t fully connected to the actual storyline.
I enjoyed that nature and animals were a layer to the plot. The novel takes place near a slough where nature and water animals are a daily part of life. Though I wouldn’t call this book atmospheric, I did enjoy this aspect of the storyline.
Plausibility was a big issue for me overall. There were too many cliche and cheesy scenes for me to feel invested. The amateur sleuthing was eye-roll worthy. I enjoyed this for being a silly and adventurous mystery but it wasn’t one I felt any connection to and I found I could “skim listen” to it and not miss out on much.
Overall, this wasn’t a hit for me, but I can see how many have loved it for being an easy, mindless, fun and entertaining read.
Audio rating: 3 stars. The audio narrator was good but not outstanding and didn’t enhance my connection to the story at all.
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy! Thank you to my lovely local library for the audio loan!
Too cute and cozy for me.
A woman undergoing cancer treatment moves in with her daughter and granddaughter. Together, the three of them find themselves tangled up in a murder investigation.
I liked the idea behind this novel of three generations of women in one family working together to solve a crime. The grandmother-mother-daughter relationships were interesting. I enjoyed following each of their personal journeys in their relationships with one another as well as their personal growth. I was intrigued by the women and found them entertaining even if I wasn’t fully connected to the actual storyline.
I enjoyed that nature and animals were a layer to the plot. The novel takes place near a slough where nature and water animals are a daily part of life. Though I wouldn’t call this book atmospheric, I did enjoy this aspect of the storyline.
Plausibility was a big issue for me overall. There were too many cliche and cheesy scenes for me to feel invested. The amateur sleuthing was eye-roll worthy. I enjoyed this for being a silly and adventurous mystery but it wasn’t one I felt any connection to and I found I could “skim listen” to it and not miss out on much.
Overall, this wasn’t a hit for me, but I can see how many have loved it for being an easy, mindless, fun and entertaining read.
Audio rating: 3 stars. The audio narrator was good but not outstanding and didn’t enhance my connection to the story at all.
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy! Thank you to my lovely local library for the audio loan!
May 11, 2025
3.25⭐
Genre ~ Amateur Sleuths
Setting ~ California
Publication date ~ September 5, 2023
Page Count ~ 363 (p + 56 chapters)
Audio length ~ 12 hours 38 minutes
Narrator ~ Jane Oppenheimer
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ family drama, cancer, murder, whodunit
Beth mother to Jacqueline (Jack) and daughter to Lana are all living together while Lana has some health issues and needs caring for. Beth and Lana have a rocky relationship, but slowly we get to see their relationship get back on track.
While I liked how the murder brought the 3 generation together, I both like and dislike the ameture sleuth plot. On one hand it's fun working with them to try to help solve the case, but in turn really? they do a better job then the cops...come on.
Overall, a bit slow to start, but decent overall. I liked 15 year old, Jack's, love and knowledge of boating.
The acknowledgments are worth the read as to why this book came about.
Narration notes:
Jane did a good job and had some distinctions between the different aged ladies, but I do wish there were 3 narrators.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ Amateur Sleuths
Setting ~ California
Publication date ~ September 5, 2023
Page Count ~ 363 (p + 56 chapters)
Audio length ~ 12 hours 38 minutes
Narrator ~ Jane Oppenheimer
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ family drama, cancer, murder, whodunit
Beth mother to Jacqueline (Jack) and daughter to Lana are all living together while Lana has some health issues and needs caring for. Beth and Lana have a rocky relationship, but slowly we get to see their relationship get back on track.
While I liked how the murder brought the 3 generation together, I both like and dislike the ameture sleuth plot. On one hand it's fun working with them to try to help solve the case, but in turn really? they do a better job then the cops...come on.
Overall, a bit slow to start, but decent overall. I liked 15 year old, Jack's, love and knowledge of boating.
The acknowledgments are worth the read as to why this book came about.
Narration notes:
Jane did a good job and had some distinctions between the different aged ladies, but I do wish there were 3 narrators.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
October 2, 2023
Mother Daughter Murder Night is a lighthearted, who-done-it, mystery murder with a dash of fun and generational drama.
Although it was predictable, I gave it 5 stars because it kept my attention and the mother, daughter relationships evolved in a meaningful way.
If you like murder mysteries that are less horrific, police procedural and more amateur-sleuth, searching for clues, then you’ll like this one!
I liked the relationship progression between the three generations of women and how they are forced to work out their differences to solve the case. I also liked learning about the California coastline sloughs and the wildlife that live there. It was a fresh setting for a murder mystery.
Although it was predictable, I gave it 5 stars because it kept my attention and the mother, daughter relationships evolved in a meaningful way.
If you like murder mysteries that are less horrific, police procedural and more amateur-sleuth, searching for clues, then you’ll like this one!
I liked the relationship progression between the three generations of women and how they are forced to work out their differences to solve the case. I also liked learning about the California coastline sloughs and the wildlife that live there. It was a fresh setting for a murder mystery.
October 12, 2023
I DNF’ed this book at 77%… I rarely, if ever, DNF a book, especially this far in, but I just don’t CARE. The plot is not bad, and the writing is fine, but I just literally do not care what happens to Jack, Beth, or Lana, and I don’t care why Ricardo was murdered or by who. This book lacked intrigue for me. Maybe I’m just not a cozy mystery girl.
Update: I just looked up the ending. Yawn.
Update: I just looked up the ending. Yawn.
September 14, 2023
3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
This is the latest pick for Reese’s Book Club.
I was able to borrow the ebook as well as the audiobook, which I listened while reading.
I thought that the audiobook was excellent.
As for the book, I did want to love it, and because I see this book as a tribute to the author’s mother, I will keep simple.
But I do have to praise the dynamic between the characters, as it was really well done. And I kind of love reading about dysfunctional family.
Although we are presented with a character dealing with cancer, the sense of humour was well dosed.
I thought that the main character was strong and intelligent.
I hope that she will keep writing, as I see a great potential.
Ebook (Kobo): 338 pages (default), 104k words
Audiobook narrated by Jane Oppenheimer: 12.6 hours (normal speed)
Hardcover (William Morrow): 368 pages (56 chapters plus acknowledgment and notes about the author)
This is the latest pick for Reese’s Book Club.
I was able to borrow the ebook as well as the audiobook, which I listened while reading.
I thought that the audiobook was excellent.
As for the book, I did want to love it, and because I see this book as a tribute to the author’s mother, I will keep simple.
But I do have to praise the dynamic between the characters, as it was really well done. And I kind of love reading about dysfunctional family.
Although we are presented with a character dealing with cancer, the sense of humour was well dosed.
I thought that the main character was strong and intelligent.
I hope that she will keep writing, as I see a great potential.
Ebook (Kobo): 338 pages (default), 104k words
Audiobook narrated by Jane Oppenheimer: 12.6 hours (normal speed)
Hardcover (William Morrow): 368 pages (56 chapters plus acknowledgment and notes about the author)
September 5, 2023
Happy Pub Day! Hope everyone enjoys!
I’m giving this one a 4.5 stars rounded up!
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is an epic debut novel by author Nina Simon. From the first page I was instantly riveted to this amazing story.
Lana is an infinitely powerful woman at the top of her game. She is the empress of her real estate empire in Los Angeles and is devastated when weakness takes her down. This weakness being metastatic lung cancer. She ends up losing everything and living with her estranged daughter, Beth, and granddaughter, Jack, in their Monterey Bay bungalow. She’s living her worst nightmare when she witnesses something utterly shady out her bedroom window. This sparks a fire back into her otherwise dark and boring days, so she gets right to work scrutinizing this small town murder case. Beth and Jack also find themselves involved and fighting for their safety against a murderer, all while rekindling their lost relationship with Lana.
Nina Simon is brilliant with this legendary whodunnit. I’m a girl that pines for horror and sometimes finds whodunnits a bit boring, but this novel was just way too fun. The characters are authentic, the humor had me cracking up, the atmosphere was beautiful yet gritty, and the plot had twists I didn’t see coming. This author was able to lead me in so many directions, that I just couldn’t put that ending together. Not completely, anyways.
But Nina Simon will tell you that it isn’t just about the murder. It’s about these three women growing and learning together while piecing their relationship back together. This book was just a well-rounded, wholesome read that I would recommend to anybody.
A great thank you goes out to Nina Simon, William Morrow, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m giving this one a 4.5 stars rounded up!
Mother-Daughter Murder Night is an epic debut novel by author Nina Simon. From the first page I was instantly riveted to this amazing story.
Lana is an infinitely powerful woman at the top of her game. She is the empress of her real estate empire in Los Angeles and is devastated when weakness takes her down. This weakness being metastatic lung cancer. She ends up losing everything and living with her estranged daughter, Beth, and granddaughter, Jack, in their Monterey Bay bungalow. She’s living her worst nightmare when she witnesses something utterly shady out her bedroom window. This sparks a fire back into her otherwise dark and boring days, so she gets right to work scrutinizing this small town murder case. Beth and Jack also find themselves involved and fighting for their safety against a murderer, all while rekindling their lost relationship with Lana.
Nina Simon is brilliant with this legendary whodunnit. I’m a girl that pines for horror and sometimes finds whodunnits a bit boring, but this novel was just way too fun. The characters are authentic, the humor had me cracking up, the atmosphere was beautiful yet gritty, and the plot had twists I didn’t see coming. This author was able to lead me in so many directions, that I just couldn’t put that ending together. Not completely, anyways.
But Nina Simon will tell you that it isn’t just about the murder. It’s about these three women growing and learning together while piecing their relationship back together. This book was just a well-rounded, wholesome read that I would recommend to anybody.
A great thank you goes out to Nina Simon, William Morrow, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2024
Just an okay one for me. 🤷🏼♀️
September 20, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT by Nina Simon is both murder mystery and multi-generational family drama combined into one heartfelt and intriguing read. Grandmother, mother, and daughter are reunited by a devastating medical diagnosis and while working through their dysfunctional dynamics they also work together to solve a murder. This is a standalone mystery that could easily become a series if the author wished.
High-powered L.A. real estate mogul, Lana Rubicon is seriously ill and now needs the assistance of her daughter, Beth who lives 300 miles north with her daughter, fifteen-year-old Jacqueline “Jack”. It is a difficult adjustment for everyone.
While Jack is leading a kayak tour of the slough, a dead body is discovered. When Jack becomes a suspect, Beth begs Lana to hire a criminal lawyer, but the bored Lana decides this is the perfect opportunity to focus on anything but her disease and protect her granddaughter by finding the real murderer. As the women discover a web of family lies, hidden agendas, and land disputes the danger escalates, and they learn that to find the truth they must do something they have never done, depend on one another.
This is a genre mash-up that delivers on both the dysfunctional family drama with humor, tough love, and learning to understand another’s view and an amateur cozy murder mystery that has plenty of twists and red herrings that kept me guessing until the end. The first third of the book leans more towards the family dynamics and discovery of the body and then the investigation plotline of the murder becomes intertwined, and the pace of the amateur investigation increases to the climax. The characters are entertaining and unique, but the family dynamics and interactions make them come to life.
I enjoyed and recommend this unique genre mash-up.
MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT by Nina Simon is both murder mystery and multi-generational family drama combined into one heartfelt and intriguing read. Grandmother, mother, and daughter are reunited by a devastating medical diagnosis and while working through their dysfunctional dynamics they also work together to solve a murder. This is a standalone mystery that could easily become a series if the author wished.
High-powered L.A. real estate mogul, Lana Rubicon is seriously ill and now needs the assistance of her daughter, Beth who lives 300 miles north with her daughter, fifteen-year-old Jacqueline “Jack”. It is a difficult adjustment for everyone.
While Jack is leading a kayak tour of the slough, a dead body is discovered. When Jack becomes a suspect, Beth begs Lana to hire a criminal lawyer, but the bored Lana decides this is the perfect opportunity to focus on anything but her disease and protect her granddaughter by finding the real murderer. As the women discover a web of family lies, hidden agendas, and land disputes the danger escalates, and they learn that to find the truth they must do something they have never done, depend on one another.
This is a genre mash-up that delivers on both the dysfunctional family drama with humor, tough love, and learning to understand another’s view and an amateur cozy murder mystery that has plenty of twists and red herrings that kept me guessing until the end. The first third of the book leans more towards the family dynamics and discovery of the body and then the investigation plotline of the murder becomes intertwined, and the pace of the amateur investigation increases to the climax. The characters are entertaining and unique, but the family dynamics and interactions make them come to life.
I enjoyed and recommend this unique genre mash-up.
February 4, 2024
I kept waiting for this book to improve as I read each subsequent chapter. However, it didn’t. Suspense? Nope. Compelling mystery? Nope. Dysfunctional family dynamics between three generations? Yes. Reading about the cancer treatment, the ailments of the residents at the nursing home and that the local cops were trying to pin a murder on the 15 year old girl who found the body? Not the most appealing tropes. I expected more.
November 14, 2023
3.5 stars
I like mysteries and stories that explore family dynamics so I figured why not give Mother-Daughter Murder Night a shot. The relationships between the 3 generations of women are really what carried the story more so than the whodunit aspects. So keep that in mind if you decide to pick up this book.
Lana Rubicon has a successful career in the real estate business. Health issues force her to temporarily move in with her daughter, Beth, and Beth's teenage daughter, Jack. Lana and Beth have a bit of a strained relationship. When Jack comes across a dead body while giving a kayaking tour, the police view her as a suspect which doesn't sit right with Lana. Even though Lana should be taking it easy, she's determined to do some investigating of her own to prove Jack is innocent.
The story starts off strong even though I found it baffling why the police would zero in on a fifteen year old so early on in the investigation. Eventually though my interest level in the mystery portions started to wane and unfortunately the conclusion didn't right the ship. What kept me reading is the family and their interactions with each other. On one side you have a complicated relationship between Lana and Beth and on the other a much different relationship between Beth and her daughter. Throw in how Lana was with Jack and all the different dynamics were fascinating to observe.
Not a must read but a decent one.
I like mysteries and stories that explore family dynamics so I figured why not give Mother-Daughter Murder Night a shot. The relationships between the 3 generations of women are really what carried the story more so than the whodunit aspects. So keep that in mind if you decide to pick up this book.
Lana Rubicon has a successful career in the real estate business. Health issues force her to temporarily move in with her daughter, Beth, and Beth's teenage daughter, Jack. Lana and Beth have a bit of a strained relationship. When Jack comes across a dead body while giving a kayaking tour, the police view her as a suspect which doesn't sit right with Lana. Even though Lana should be taking it easy, she's determined to do some investigating of her own to prove Jack is innocent.
The story starts off strong even though I found it baffling why the police would zero in on a fifteen year old so early on in the investigation. Eventually though my interest level in the mystery portions started to wane and unfortunately the conclusion didn't right the ship. What kept me reading is the family and their interactions with each other. On one side you have a complicated relationship between Lana and Beth and on the other a much different relationship between Beth and her daughter. Throw in how Lana was with Jack and all the different dynamics were fascinating to observe.
Not a must read but a decent one.
October 30, 2023
This was not what I expected. The characters are good and likeable, but for a book with murder in the title- meh. I felt like this book was more of a story about three generations
of women in the same family and how their relationships change and grow together. This was very much a slow burn and nothing too crazy as far as the murder goes. I was speed reading through 90% of the book because the details didn’t matter. I work in site acquisition and deal with real estate documents/leases/people daily - so the last thing I wanted to do was read about it. My favorite part of the book was ultimately what the title of the book represents to these women because my mom and I grew up doing the same.
of women in the same family and how their relationships change and grow together. This was very much a slow burn and nothing too crazy as far as the murder goes. I was speed reading through 90% of the book because the details didn’t matter. I work in site acquisition and deal with real estate documents/leases/people daily - so the last thing I wanted to do was read about it. My favorite part of the book was ultimately what the title of the book represents to these women because my mom and I grew up doing the same.
September 23, 2023
Gilmore girls with murder this is not. There is no lighthearted banter and there is no warm affection. There is a teenage pregnancy, so I guess that's what they're pinning the description on? But instead of lovable goofs and clever inside jokes, you will find.... dislikable stereotypes and generational hatred. With murder.
August 20, 2023
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Nina Simon, and William Morrow for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.<\i>
New to the world of Nina Simon, I was pleased when given an ARC of the novel. The story worked well—with Simon using her mother to shape and vet ideas— and had elements of greatness througout. When a man turns up dead in the water, all eyes turn to young Jacqueline ‘Jack’ Rubicon, though it is her grandmother, Lana, whose recent illness leaves her with a great deal of time to investigate. Working alongside her own daughter, Beth, they peddle together what might have happened and notice that there were some eerie connections with a piece of land in the area, which could open up new motives. Nina Simon does well with this piece and will surely have me coming back for the next instalment or standalone thriller.
Lana Rubicon is a powerful woman in the L.A. real-estate market. Known to many, Lana is worried when she finds herself diagnosed with cancer and stuck in a small California community to convalesce with her daughter, Beth, and granddaughter Jacqueline—who prefers the hip moniker ‘Jack’. When Jack discovers a body while working for a kayak tour establishment, all eyes turn to her as a suspect. The victim was supposed to be on one of Jack’s tours, but no one has any record of it. The Rubicon women are thrown into chaos, as the police begin nosing around and asking the tough questions.
With little to do except protect her family, Lana decides to find the true killer and bide her time. When one of Beth;’s patients at the local senior’s home passes on, Lana thinks that there might be something to it, as the man was once the owner of a large tract of land. Lana discovers some interesting connections about how the land was to be used by his children, which also ties in with the victim of the boating incident. Could these multiple murders connects it all together?
As Lana makes progress, her own life is put in danger, which only lures Beth into helping as best she can. As Lana, Beth, and Jack all work their own angles on the case, things get both a lot clearer and more muddied. The killer is out there, but nothing can be determined until the clues come together. This is sure to be a great effort and the Rubicon women are ready for anything that is tossed at them, even if it means putting themselves in danger. A great piece by Nina Simon that will keep the reader up well into the night.
When asked to read this ARC, I was not sure what I ought to expect. A mother-daughter amateur investigation team could have some real potential, or it could fall flat and end up being more about the inner connection of family. Nina Simon tackles a great deal with this piece and succeeded tremendously, offering up not only the connection of three generations, but also a strong mystery that persists throughout the narrative. The foundation proves strong and the rest of the story builds on it, effectively luring the reader in and keeping them on task throughout. The characters that emerge here are both relatable and worth a deeper look, which I can only hope they will be given the chance to do in future novels. Three generations of Rubicon women emerge, each with their own passions and characteristics, which helps the reader see the similarities and contrasts in equal measure. Strong plots develop throughout and solve themselves as the story progresses. There is a mystery and some subplot that’s keep things on task, perfect for the reader who likes variety. I can only hope that Nina Simon has more in store for her core three, though anything is possible with how things turned up at the end.
Kudos, Madam Simon, for a great piece of writing that had me eager to push through at every page turn.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.<\i>
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/mo...
New to the world of Nina Simon, I was pleased when given an ARC of the novel. The story worked well—with Simon using her mother to shape and vet ideas— and had elements of greatness througout. When a man turns up dead in the water, all eyes turn to young Jacqueline ‘Jack’ Rubicon, though it is her grandmother, Lana, whose recent illness leaves her with a great deal of time to investigate. Working alongside her own daughter, Beth, they peddle together what might have happened and notice that there were some eerie connections with a piece of land in the area, which could open up new motives. Nina Simon does well with this piece and will surely have me coming back for the next instalment or standalone thriller.
Lana Rubicon is a powerful woman in the L.A. real-estate market. Known to many, Lana is worried when she finds herself diagnosed with cancer and stuck in a small California community to convalesce with her daughter, Beth, and granddaughter Jacqueline—who prefers the hip moniker ‘Jack’. When Jack discovers a body while working for a kayak tour establishment, all eyes turn to her as a suspect. The victim was supposed to be on one of Jack’s tours, but no one has any record of it. The Rubicon women are thrown into chaos, as the police begin nosing around and asking the tough questions.
With little to do except protect her family, Lana decides to find the true killer and bide her time. When one of Beth;’s patients at the local senior’s home passes on, Lana thinks that there might be something to it, as the man was once the owner of a large tract of land. Lana discovers some interesting connections about how the land was to be used by his children, which also ties in with the victim of the boating incident. Could these multiple murders connects it all together?
As Lana makes progress, her own life is put in danger, which only lures Beth into helping as best she can. As Lana, Beth, and Jack all work their own angles on the case, things get both a lot clearer and more muddied. The killer is out there, but nothing can be determined until the clues come together. This is sure to be a great effort and the Rubicon women are ready for anything that is tossed at them, even if it means putting themselves in danger. A great piece by Nina Simon that will keep the reader up well into the night.
When asked to read this ARC, I was not sure what I ought to expect. A mother-daughter amateur investigation team could have some real potential, or it could fall flat and end up being more about the inner connection of family. Nina Simon tackles a great deal with this piece and succeeded tremendously, offering up not only the connection of three generations, but also a strong mystery that persists throughout the narrative. The foundation proves strong and the rest of the story builds on it, effectively luring the reader in and keeping them on task throughout. The characters that emerge here are both relatable and worth a deeper look, which I can only hope they will be given the chance to do in future novels. Three generations of Rubicon women emerge, each with their own passions and characteristics, which helps the reader see the similarities and contrasts in equal measure. Strong plots develop throughout and solve themselves as the story progresses. There is a mystery and some subplot that’s keep things on task, perfect for the reader who likes variety. I can only hope that Nina Simon has more in store for her core three, though anything is possible with how things turned up at the end.
Kudos, Madam Simon, for a great piece of writing that had me eager to push through at every page turn.
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https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/mo...
February 9, 2024
When you are as far behind on reviews as I am, sometimes you just have to leave it as . . .
For as high as my hopes were set just from the title, unfortunately this did not end up being a fave.
For as high as my hopes were set just from the title, unfortunately this did not end up being a fave.
August 9, 2023
3.5 stars
Nina Simon's upcoming mystery novel, MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT (amazing book title by the way), is a unique whodunnit mystery involving three decades of women within the same family. When successful and assertive businesswoman Lana Rubicon gets news about her cancer diagnosis, she ends up staying with her adult daughter Beth and Beth's daughter Jacqueline (Jack). The trio are living in a sleepy coastal town without the glitz and glam that Lana has grown accustomed to. That being said, once Lana arrives to town, a dead body is found that throws the entire town into turmoil. Lana saw something that may help the investigation, but she wants to protect her family at all costs and begins to investigate on her own. With her daughter and granddaughter's help, Lana finds out that this sleepy town isn't all that sleepy and has secrets of their own—secrets that people want to stay buried.
I thought that MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT would be more comical than I expected (given the title of the book and the cover), and it's more of a family drama with a light mystery as a secondary storyline. The story involves power dynamics between women from different generations and how they can come together amid their differences. I enjoyed the messaging behind the story, but it took a while for me to get invested into the story. I usually DNF after 50 pages, but this book needed an additional 40 pages for me to really get into it. That being said, once I got into the story, I was really excited to see how it played out. MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT is a cozy mystery that readers of Finlay Donovan is Killing It will enjoy, and I'm curious to see how readers will receive the ending.
Nina Simon's upcoming mystery novel, MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT (amazing book title by the way), is a unique whodunnit mystery involving three decades of women within the same family. When successful and assertive businesswoman Lana Rubicon gets news about her cancer diagnosis, she ends up staying with her adult daughter Beth and Beth's daughter Jacqueline (Jack). The trio are living in a sleepy coastal town without the glitz and glam that Lana has grown accustomed to. That being said, once Lana arrives to town, a dead body is found that throws the entire town into turmoil. Lana saw something that may help the investigation, but she wants to protect her family at all costs and begins to investigate on her own. With her daughter and granddaughter's help, Lana finds out that this sleepy town isn't all that sleepy and has secrets of their own—secrets that people want to stay buried.
I thought that MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT would be more comical than I expected (given the title of the book and the cover), and it's more of a family drama with a light mystery as a secondary storyline. The story involves power dynamics between women from different generations and how they can come together amid their differences. I enjoyed the messaging behind the story, but it took a while for me to get invested into the story. I usually DNF after 50 pages, but this book needed an additional 40 pages for me to really get into it. That being said, once I got into the story, I was really excited to see how it played out. MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER NIGHT is a cozy mystery that readers of Finlay Donovan is Killing It will enjoy, and I'm curious to see how readers will receive the ending.
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