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Dreaming of writing a murder mystery book? Listen to the inspiring story of a mother and daughter who crafted their whodunit amidst a cancer diagnosis. Today Nina Simon discusses her debut novel, “Mother-Daughter Murder Night.”

How does a former NASA engineer make the shift to murder mystery writer?

 In this fascinating Book Gang episode, we sit down with the talented Nina Simon to uncover the remarkable journey behind her debut novel, Mother-Daughter Murder Night. 

When Nina's mother battled stage 4 cancer in late 2020, it prompted her to leave her CEO position and care for her. 

Amidst the challenges, Nina and her mother found solace in their shared love for murder mysteries, leading them to write a mystery book of their own to keep them busy during their long days in the hospital room.

Today, we explore the authenticity of mother-daughter relationships portrayed in the story and the intricate balance between land conservation and community tensions depicted in her novel’s narrative. 

We also discuss the therapeutic power of creativity, courage, and resilience that emerged through the act of storytelling bonding Nina and her mother during this challenging period. 

THIS WEEK'S SPECIAL BONUS BOOK LIST- THE 2023 FALL READING GUIDE

Looking for the best new fall books? Don't miss the MomAdvice Fall Reading Guide with 37 new books for fall. Read the guide for free or join the paid community for the 26-page printable version. 

Patrons can follow Nina to our spoiler-filled bonus conversation to discuss the killer AND if a Mother-Daughter Murder Night sequel is in the works for the writer.  Don't miss the fun!

Meet Nina Simon

Nina Simon has donned numerous hats throughout her journey, from being a NASA engineer and slam poet to a mystery game designer, exhibit developer, museum director, and founder of a global nonprofit. 

Her career has predominantly unfolded within the realm of museums and cultural centers, earning her recognition as a "museum visionary" by Smithsonian Magazine due to her community-centered design approach. 

As an Ashoka fellow, she established OF/BY/FOR ALL, a worldwide nonprofit that crafts digital tools empowering civic and cultural entities to embrace inclusivity, relevance, and sustainability.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nina lives with her husband and daughter in an off-grid community in the Santa Cruz mountains. 

Mother-Daughter Murder Night is her debut novel. 

Mentioned in this episode:

Joining the Patreon gives you access to the 2023 Fall Reading Guide printable and a bonus episode with Nina Simon. Get the September FULLY BOOKED buzzy new release show, exclusive author interviews, music playlists, and more! 

Mother Daughter Murder Night by Nina Simon

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Magic Lessons Podcast

Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

The Kayak Connection

S. A. Cosby

Don’t Know Tough by Eli Cranor

Louise Penny

Inspector Gamache Series

Three Pines

David Joy

Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries

Nina’s Book Tour

2023 FALL READING GUIDE HERE

Shop the above (Amazon) links or through my Book Gang Bookshop Page!! They pay a 10% commission on every sale and match 10% to independent bookstores.

 

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