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Bad Hair Day #3

Murder by Manicure

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Hairstylist Marla Shore joins a fitness club to get in shape but discovers a dead body instead of an exercise routine.

Jolene Myers—a client at Marla’s salon—has drowned beneath the frothing waters of the whirlpool. When Homicide Detective Dalton Vail determines Jolene's death was no accident, Marla decides to give her deductive skills a workout and help solve the case.

Jolene had few friends at the fancy athletic club. As Marla gets to know everyone, she wonders who might have targeted Jolene for a lethal soak in the hot tub. The shady pharmacist? The smarmy city councilman? Or maybe the vocal animal rights activist? The fitness club staff had no fondness for Jolene, either. How far would they go to keep their secrets?

When another member turns up dead, Marla intensifies her efforts to nail the killer and wrap the case. If she fails, the next buff body on its way to the morgue might be hers.

248 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 31, 1998

18 people are currently reading
447 people want to read

About the author

Nancy J. Cohen

40 books667 followers
Nancy J. Cohen writes the Bad Hair Day Mysteries featuring South Florida hairstylist Marla Vail. Titles in this series have been named Best Cozy Mystery by Suspense Magazine, won the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards and the RONE Award, placed first in the Chanticleer International Book Awards and third in the Arizona Literary Awards. Her nonfiction titles, Writing the Cozy Mystery and A Bad Hair Day Cookbook, have won the FAPA President’s Book Award, the Royal Palm Literary Award, and IAN Book of the Year. Nancy’s imaginative romances have proven popular with fans as well. These books have won the HOLT Medallion and Best Book in Romantic SciFi/Fantasy at The Romance Reviews. Active in the writing community, Nancy is a past president of Florida Romance Writers and Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. When not busy writing, she enjoys reading, fine dining, cruising, and visiting Disney World. Visit her at NancyJCohen.com

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for FangirlNation.
684 reviews133 followers
June 6, 2017
Hair stylist Marla Shore joins a health club in Murder by Manicure by Nancy J. Cohen, and at her first night there, she walks in on her hair client Jolene Myers in a heated argument with Cookie Calcone, a virulent activist against product testing on animals. Jolene works as a researcher for a chemical company, and Cookie accuses her of cruelty to animals in her work. Announcing plans to get a massage and then relax in the whirlpool, Jolene walks off and Marla goes to explore the gym. But as she is checking out the machines in the exercise room,Marla hears a frantic scream, only to run into the room with the whirlpool and find Jolene lying at the bottom of the spa. The staff try to revive her, but with no success. And the tox screen shows that Jolene had ingested a strong sedative about an hour prior to her death, making her death look like murder.

Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
Profile Image for Linda.
2,320 reviews58 followers
April 15, 2021
I haven't read this series in order so it was fun going back towards the beginning. I do like Marla and Dalton. The mystery was good and I enjoyed the story.
Profile Image for Julie Howard.
Author 2 books31 followers
November 1, 2025
I enjoyed this book. This is book three in this delightful series and it goes from strength to strength. I don't normally like to go from one book straight on to the next in the series but I am having so much fun with this series that I have no choice. Marla finds herself caught up in some unusual and amusing situations, which has you wondering just how the author comes up with her ideas and I hope she has a lot more to come. There is a lot going on in this book with keeping fit, reunions with old friends, animal rights and of course dead bodies. So the story moves along quickly and of course Marla is there to figure it all out, which is a good job because I had no clue who was involved. I love the characters, even the detective is winning me over. If only Marla was so easy she might not have half the problems that she does but then again the story would be so entertaining. I can't wait to start the next story.

Somehow Marla's best friend talks her into getting fit by trying out the local fitness club but they get more than they bargained for when Marla discovers a dead body floating in the hot tub. Jolene was a client of Marla and with the detective keeping what happened close to his vest, Marla bank choice but to find out what happened to her. Jolene was killed at the fitness club so does that mean the killer works or goes there too? It's not her fault if while exercising she asks some questions right?.Although Jolene's company has put her on the radar of an animal right activist but would an animal lover killer a person? Marla hopes not because the same animal right activist turns her sights on Marla. Can Marla work out how she died in order to give her a clue to the killer. At the same time her friend needs her to pretend to be engaged to him to get him out of a troubling situation but it leaves her and Dalton at odds. Can Marla help her friend and solve the murder? Then things get really complicated and two more bodies are found.
I like the narrator and hope she remains the author's narrator of choice because I couldn't imagine anybody else bringing Marla and her wacky friends to life, quite like she does.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review .
Profile Image for AudioBookReviewer.
949 reviews167 followers
June 19, 2017
My original Murder by Manicure audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

Trouble follows Marla Shore wherever she goes! Trying out a fitness club trial membership she discovers Jolene dead in a whirlpool. Trouble always finds Marla with bodies popping up, hidden identities and playing with fire, so to speak! Marla’s relationship with Dalton takes a series of hilarious turns when she agrees to be “engaged” to Arnie and Dalton introduces his young daughter to Marla. First and foremost, Marla sets her mind to finding out who killed Jolene before anyone else dies.

Marla is a wonderful sleuth. Her skills are questionable but she gets the job done! Funny, light and full of surprises and twists, Nancy Cohen has another delightful cozy mystery hit.

Cohen keeps developing her characters, keeping them realistic and relatable. The situations Marla finds herself are realistic as well. She engages the listeners to solve the mystery before the end of the book but as a true mystery writer, she throws in some surprise twists and keeps us guessing until the last page. The story is well written, the plot expertly executed!

Once again, Mary Ann Jacobs owns Marla and the rest of the characters making the book come to life. Her highly talented performance keeps the listeners engaged with her smooth and calming voice. The words roll from her tongue in a clear and easy manner making her own the story fully.

The teaming of Nancy Cohen with Mary Ann Jacobs is exceptional! They keep the story light, fun and interesting.

A fan of cozy mysteries, I have enjoyed this series by Nancy Cohen, performed by Mary Ann Jacobs immensely. I look forward to more.

There were no issues with the production or quality of this audiobook.

Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Profile Image for Plish.
20 reviews1 follower
June 12, 2024
I finished this simply because I started it.
When I picked this up at a library sale I was unaware that it was part of a series. But it was easy to figure out what was going on even without having read the prior two books in the series. Yadayada here's my review...
Anyone remember how heinous late 90s/ early 00s diet culture was? This book was a victim. On every page, and at every turn it mentions some character's weight or what they're eating and how it will effect their figure later. It's actually over kill. The main character is always complaining about her weight even though she's described as 120lbs at 5'6".
Maybe the character of the detective was more fleshed out in the previous books, but in this one he just felt like "man" who "did detective things." The mystery was also kind of boring. What was the point of Slate wearing drag on his weekends anyways? How was no one ever able to recognize him in drag ever... it was nice to see the title make sense right at the end.
Profile Image for Georgiann Hennelly.
1,960 reviews25 followers
September 14, 2015
Marla Shore is a Hairstylist. She decides to use a thirty day free pass at the local Health club to get in shape. But when she over hears an arguement in the locker room between Jolene Myers- a client of hers and another women. Than finds Jolene drowned in the whirlpool. Det Dalton Vail determines Jolene was murdered . Marla decides to try to help solve the case.
Profile Image for Emmy.
909 reviews11 followers
March 28, 2018
Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?
It's one of the better cozies I've come across. It's longer and holds more water.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?
There were too many plot holes. Or maybe not accurate explanations.

I'm not an expert, but it's not clear how it was determined Jolene had "definitely" been drugged with roofies via the capsules and not through dissolving in a drink.

A car blows up and there's no ATF or othe government agency involved? No reporters? It could be stereotypical, but usually a reporter is involved in mysteries. Especially when it's public displays, dangers, or at businesses.

Why did the real Hortense (sp?) feel inclined to expose and reveal her identity? Other than a waitress who "spilled the beans", nothing really jumped out she had to come clean to a stranger. She had already spoken to the Detective via a phone call.

When Lindsey's injury comes to light, does Marla truly advertise her salon by saying her manicurist also cuts and dyes? I'm all anout taking advantage of a sales lead-in... but really?

When Cookie talks to them about her findings in Jolene's office, the conversation takes place outside of the salon on the sidewalk. Heck, if it's like that, she could have just publicly announced it at the door for everyone to hear.

Maybe this is because this is the first book by this author I've come across, by why doesn't anyone other than Eloise know Marla and Detective Vail were dating?

Eloise appears for her hair appointment, but never reaches out to her real estate business? Or was the other agent being coy?

I don't understand why Marla thinks she's privy to information on an open investigation with Detective Vail.

The foursome conversations involving Marla, Dalton, Archie, and "Jill" didn't feel real. Even Marla's thoughts were off key.

The molotov. Why doesn't anyone in town know about this? Is there no gossip from the police department? The fire department comes to her home and no neighbors are lingering or asking questions or knocking on her door to be nosy? Actually, no one knows about it. (She explains it while in her salon - twice. Once, when explaining to Archie why she stayed at Dalton's the night before.)

And what gentleman flaunts it (her night clothes) publicly anyway - since no one in the town knows?!

I'm aware the time line for this is probably late 90s, early 00's (an era pre-cell phone dominance and social media frenzy) but some of these situations don't gel.

I'm still rating it a 4 star because despite the narrator's lack of varying voices and these issues with the plot and story, it is still tighter and better than most cozies I've come across with Indie authors.

This was enjoyable and (obviously with the amount of higher ratings and reviews) a vast majority of audiences will like the characters and angles.


Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?
No. It's lengthy and not quite riveting. Interesting and multi-layered though.

This review is similar to the one I left on Audible.com
Profile Image for Michelle VanDaley.
1,701 reviews5 followers
June 15, 2017
My review is based on the Audiobook. This is the first of The Bad Hair Day Mysteries that I have listened/read so they can be read as a standalone. I was bothered at how loose lipped the cop is, they do not divulge information so casually. The lead Marla is not as likeable as I would like her to be. She is pretty superficial and nosey. Getting involved in things she really shouldnt be getting involved in. More than once she was given confidential information from the police and she immediately turns around and blabs it to everyone. The animal testing angle was a good one however I do not think it was necessary to be so descriptive in a cozy msytery. The narrator did a decent job and was easy to understand. I would like to listen to another book in the series to see if my issues are series wide or just this particular book. Overall it was an easy listen and I did not know who did it until more than halfway through. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Lori.
529 reviews3 followers
September 19, 2017
Another really good addition to the series. This is a perfect book (or series) when you want a mystery that is a bit lighter and fun but still interesting with plenty of twist to keep you guessing. Just as entertaining, engaging and enjoyable as the previous books in the series.

Mystery, a touch of romance, humor and a lot of fun. Just sit back and enjoy.

Although this is the 3rd book in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone.

Broward County is my old stomping ground so I could picture everything in my head. Being familiar with an area just pulls you into the story that much more and adds to the overall enjoyment.

May Ann Jacobs once again does a great job with the narration. Pleasant voice. Easy to listen to for long periods of time. Good character voices. Clearly spoken with a nice even pace. Perfect tone and delivery. She made the characters and story come to life through her narration. Very enjoyable.

I was provided this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Stephanie (Between the Coverz).
578 reviews5 followers
October 22, 2017
An entertaining, engaging and comical mystery!

Murder by Manicure is a fast-paced, short comical mystery. As a light mystery, you get the enjoyment of a mystery tossed in with some humor and charm. The story is full of suspense and unplanned explorations. I thought this book was unique and amusing with some unforeseen twists. This is the third book in the series but is definitely a standalone. Not having read the previous books in the series, this book did not have the feeling that I missed anything. They are unique and individual stories.

Mary Ann Jacobs did a good job with the narration. She had a clear and crisp voice that was easy to follow. She brought great tone and delivery. She helped bring the story to life. It was enjoyable listening to her narration.

This was a nice and entertaining cozy mystery from Nancy J Cohen. It will certainly not be my last read from her. I was not disappointed at all. I recommend Murder by Manicure to anyone that enjoys cozy and entertaining mysteries.
1,281 reviews67 followers
December 12, 2017
This book was originally written at least 15 years ago and I must have originally read it very close to it's publication date. I guess my tastes have changed because I have read every book in this series so I must have originally liked this book. After listening to it now (at the age of almost 55) I would not have bothered to get the next book because I found Marla to be pretty darn unlikable and superficial. Everything and everyone was judged by their appearance.

The mystery aspect was fine, but overshadowed by the romantic elements; Marla for Vail and a friend for a former classmate. Marla helps her friend with his romantic quest, but it was juvenile and I'm surprised someone of her age and personality would participate (and for mere bagels).

The narrator had a variety of voices and did a good job.

I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobookworm Promotions. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Profile Image for Kitty_ranma.
500 reviews11 followers
June 29, 2018
This is the third book in this series, but it's the first one I've read/listened to. It can be read alone but I wouldn't recommend it, at least if you're like me I get frustrated when things are mentioned from the other books it can be confusing. I can't wait for more of this, I want to say more about this story but I absolutely hate spoilers.
The narrator brings the story to life.
Reasons I enjoyed this audio book:
Wonderful characters, Page-turner, Great world building, Unpredictable, Original, Easy-to-listen, Entertaining, Action-packed, Funny.
Bookshelves/tags:
contemporary, humorous, mystery, series, suspense.
This Audio book was given to me at my request from the publisher, author or narrator and I provided this unbiased voluntary review.
Profile Image for Leslie Fisher.
810 reviews18 followers
May 23, 2017
This is a fun cozy mystery. I've read the previous two books in the series and enjoyed them as well. I love seeing the world through the eyes of a hair stylist. Its fun to hear all of Marla's thought about how people's hairstyles flatter them (or don't). Its such a different perspective for me, which is why I think its fun. The mystery was good (though I think I preferred the previous two slightly more). I listened to the Audible audio version of the book and I really enjoyed the narrator, Mary Ann Jacobs. She really gave a lot of life to the characters. If you want a fun, easy read, I recommend this series.
1,696 reviews7 followers
April 9, 2018
Not as good as the others. No pretense at all on Marla's part that she isn't investigating the death of Jolene, then Sam, then Cookie. And who is Hortense, who wants to be called Jill? And where does this all fit in with Det. Vail? What was a little irritating, and I know that Marla runs a hair salon, is EVERY time she meets a new character, she immediately goes into either inner or verbal critique mode on the other person's hair, makeup, etc. Folks, this is not Fashion Police. I almost felt as if someone should just tell her to ditch her salon and join the force.
Profile Image for April.
2,201 reviews58 followers
June 5, 2017
Murder by Manicure
: Nancy J. Cohen

Book three in this cozy mystery series. The characters are out to solve a murder but along the way we get some interesting twists and turns. Add in romance and you get a fun listen.




The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed by Mary Ann Jacobs.



"I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
Profile Image for Sabrina.
1,616 reviews35 followers
August 9, 2017
Apparently Marla just can't go long without getting mixed up in a mystery. When someone drowns at her new gym she can't resist trying to solve the murder. I enjoyed figuring out the Slate/Tesla mystery but the flirting between Marla and Detective Vail was a little cringeworthy.
I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobookworm Promotions. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
1,160 reviews12 followers
September 22, 2017
This is the first time reading this author and I enjoyed it. The main character is Marla, a hair dresser who is kind of going with a police detective. She gets involved in figuring out a murder of a client/ friend of hers. They way she goes about it is different from the norm and kind of funny in places. I think I figured it out about the same time she did. I look forwaed to reading about more of her adventures
Profile Image for ☺Trish.
1,406 reviews
September 28, 2024
Marla investigating the murders in the first two books is almost understandable - one occurred in her salon and in book two the fundraiser she volunteers to help her cousin organize is being sabotaged.
This time, though, there is no reason other than she is a nosy, meddling woman.
At least I got a much clearer picture of Marla - 34 years old, 5' 6" and 120 pounds.
Det. Dalton Vail still comes off as a very wooden character.
Profile Image for Julia David.
2,496 reviews25 followers
June 22, 2017
Marla and the crew are back. I am really liking this series. When Marla decides she needs to get in better shape, she meets one of her clients at the club. All of a sudden, her client is dead and of course Marla can't let it go. Not only is she running a business, she has a fake fiancée, helping Dalton with his daughter and trying to solve several murders. Where does she find the time?
582 reviews
June 22, 2017
I found it very entertaining. The characters are very interesting and well written. A hairdresser teams up with police detective friend to solve a murder of a client. This fast moving tale is full of suspense as unplanned misadventures add to the mystery, they're trying to solve. I will be checking out more books in this series.
983 reviews2 followers
September 25, 2017
I received this audiobook free for an honest review. This book has a similar theme to the previous books, however, there are some very interesting twists that will keep you on your toes. This book is neither a romance, a thriller, or suspense, it is all three and more. The narrator did a great job with the characters that only enhance the already great story.
Profile Image for Charlene.
1,284 reviews40 followers
June 5, 2019
I love this cozy series! Lots of interesting quirky characters and a really fun storyline. Lots of twists and turns in this cozy mystery. The author keeps you guessing right up until the end of the story! Marla gets into some messes and always manages to figure out whodunit! I am starting the next book on the series right now! Thank you Nancy J. Cohen for writing such a fun series!
695 reviews3 followers
May 27, 2025
A fun fast paced series. I like the salon setting. Marla is a likable fun independent woman who is still struggling to settle down after being disappointed with her previous marriage and failed attempts at meeting men. I like her friend who is more than willing to jump in a be her side kick when needed. Good mystery fun adding the gym into the mix
Profile Image for Suzan.
1,642 reviews18 followers
June 2, 2017
This is book 3 in the Bad Hair Day Mysteries series. This was another great mystery solved by Marla Shore. I enjoyed the story and really thought Mary Ann Jacobs did a wonderful job of narrating the story. This was a gift with the understanding that I would leave a honest review.
Profile Image for Woody.
230 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2017
Free download from Bookfunnel Murder Mystery week 19th to 26th August 2017

I Loved the writing style. This is book 3 in the series. Lots going on with the plots and subplots.
Entertaining and packed story. Better than the average cozy mystery. Very Enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Sherry.
4 reviews6 followers
September 23, 2017
This was the first book I read for free from the author thru book funnel. I loved every minute of it, with Marlas no nonsense attitude towards her life and solving mysteries. Trouble follows Hair Stylist Marla Shore wherever she goes!
Profile Image for Julia Lednicky.
Author 3 books2 followers
June 7, 2024
Loving this series

Marla plunges deeper into mystery investigation in this installment and emerges victorious through several fight scenes, proving she has the chops to succeed as an amateur sleuth.
145 reviews
June 9, 2017
It was a typical cozy mystery with murders that didn't have gruesome details. I didn't understand a few of the Jewish terms but it was a fun read.
Profile Image for Trish.
809 reviews16 followers
May 20, 2019
Did much care for this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews

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