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Laurel McKay Mysteries #1
Dying for a Date
When her dating service turns deadly, Laurel must race to find the killer before she becomes the next victim... Not sure if she is looking for Mr. Right, or Mr. Every Other Saturday Night, recently divorced Laurel McKay reluctantly joins THE LOVE CLUB, a matchmaking agency advertised as the safe alternative to on-line dating. After Bachelor one decides he wants her for dessert, Laurel dispatches him with her cell phone. The next day she discovers her drop dead gorgeous date has literally dropped dead. When Bachelor two disappears during dinner, Laurel's only alibi is a friendly bottle of Dom Perignon. The investigating detective has to decide if the sassy soccer mom is a killer, or the next target. Her boss at Hangtown Bank threatens to fire her when he learns the latest victim was an important client. Fortunately he needs her expertise to investigate some questionable loans. Laurel and her mother, who insists her daughter is innocent because she is too disorganized to plan a murder, set out to save her reputation, her job, and her life.
269 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2010
1111 people are currently reading
1633 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Sample
26 books203 followersCindy Sample is a former corporate CEO who decided plotting murder was more fun than plodding through paperwork. After one too many mergers,she retired to write her national bestselling and award-winning Laurel McKay Humorous mystery series set in the California Gold Country. Spindrift Cove Mysteries, her newest series, is set in Washington State, featuring Sierra Sullivan, a former cruise director.
Cindy is a five-time LEFTY Award finalist for best humorous mystery and a two-time SILVER FALCHION Award finalist for best traditional mystery. She is a past president of the Sacramento chapter of Sisters in Crime and has served on the boards of the Sacramento Opera and YWCA. Visit her website at www.cindysamplebooks.com
Cindy is a five-time LEFTY Award finalist for best humorous mystery and a two-time SILVER FALCHION Award finalist for best traditional mystery. She is a past president of the Sacramento chapter of Sisters in Crime and has served on the boards of the Sacramento Opera and YWCA. Visit her website at www.cindysamplebooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
March 10, 2020
"...or maybe I was so hot he couldn't help himself." Really, Cindy. This was written in 2010. Who still believes that men can't be expected to refrain from assault in the presence of an attractive woman? I don't mind fluffy, light-hearted mysteries but my hackles go up when I see young women readers exposed to such toxic messages. I tried to get past that phrase and enjoy the book anyway but there was nothing to hold me. If you like fashion, shallow gossip, and glitzy cars, you might be able to manage this book but I just couldn't.
April 4, 2014
Darling!
I'm going to admit I wouldn't have picked up this book if I hadn't chatted with the author on FB as well as in person. But when she put it on sale - I couldn't resist.
Good move on her part and good move on my part! I'm now addicted to this clever, very funny series and look forward to reading more books in this series and more books by this author.
Job well done Ms. Sample!
I'm going to admit I wouldn't have picked up this book if I hadn't chatted with the author on FB as well as in person. But when she put it on sale - I couldn't resist.
Good move on her part and good move on my part! I'm now addicted to this clever, very funny series and look forward to reading more books in this series and more books by this author.
Job well done Ms. Sample!
January 17, 2013
Dying For A Date
Author: Cindy Sample
(Synnopsis)
What do a CPA Tax Accountant, A Doctor and A Insurance Underwriter have in common. Why the Love Club, of course.
Laurel McKay, 39, is a recently divorced mother of two looking to get back into the dating scene. Unsure of how to go about it she is talked into joining The Love Club. Her first date is with Garrett Lindstrom, a handsome, self absorbed and successful CPA. Following an altercation with her date where she escapes his persistant wandering hands Lindstrom is found dead inside his car outside his home. Date two is Jeremy Slater, a rich well-liked doctor. They are at an expensive restaurant for dinner when Jeremy goes to answer a page and never returns. He is later pulled from the river outside the restaurant battered and bruised.
With date three coming up and convinced the Sheriff's department is not looking for anyone other than herself as a possible suspect, Laurel and her friends set out to track down the real killer much to th consternation of the investigative team Tom Hunter, who makes Laurel's heart go pitter-patter and Bradford who has decided Laurel is suspect number one.
(Review)
Dying For A Date is a fast paced cozy murder mystery by Cindy Sample that grabs you from the first and draws you in till the last page. Full of twist and turns and delightfully quirky characters. Once I began the book I resented any interuption that kept me from reading more about the sassy heroine, Laurel McKay. You too will laugh with her as she struggles to juggle a job, home life, two active kids, a social life and now an investigation to prove she is not the murderer. Thank you Miss Sample for the laughs and the joy from this must read book.
Author: Cindy Sample
(Synnopsis)
What do a CPA Tax Accountant, A Doctor and A Insurance Underwriter have in common. Why the Love Club, of course.
Laurel McKay, 39, is a recently divorced mother of two looking to get back into the dating scene. Unsure of how to go about it she is talked into joining The Love Club. Her first date is with Garrett Lindstrom, a handsome, self absorbed and successful CPA. Following an altercation with her date where she escapes his persistant wandering hands Lindstrom is found dead inside his car outside his home. Date two is Jeremy Slater, a rich well-liked doctor. They are at an expensive restaurant for dinner when Jeremy goes to answer a page and never returns. He is later pulled from the river outside the restaurant battered and bruised.
With date three coming up and convinced the Sheriff's department is not looking for anyone other than herself as a possible suspect, Laurel and her friends set out to track down the real killer much to th consternation of the investigative team Tom Hunter, who makes Laurel's heart go pitter-patter and Bradford who has decided Laurel is suspect number one.
(Review)
Dying For A Date is a fast paced cozy murder mystery by Cindy Sample that grabs you from the first and draws you in till the last page. Full of twist and turns and delightfully quirky characters. Once I began the book I resented any interuption that kept me from reading more about the sassy heroine, Laurel McKay. You too will laugh with her as she struggles to juggle a job, home life, two active kids, a social life and now an investigation to prove she is not the murderer. Thank you Miss Sample for the laughs and the joy from this must read book.
December 14, 2019
I had this on my kindle for a looong time...and that's exactly when I should have read it. A great mystery and lots of humour combined in this awesome story. Some laugh out loud situations and some very good chuckles. #2 in this series is already downloaded and I'll start it right away.
Very much enjoyed this!
Very much enjoyed this!
October 1, 2012
Laurel McKay isn't exactly what many men consider an ideal date. She's divorced, the mother of two kids, and her dates keep showing up dead. When she is, quite naturally, considered to be the only suspect in the two cases that otherwise seem to have no connection, Laurel decides that she is her own best shot at proving her innocence by solving the murders herself.
Cindy Sample's debut novel is a hilarious romp, dragging the reader along with Laurel from humiliation at her kid's soccer game to a wake where she shouldn't be, and all over the gold country in the Sierra Nevada foothills in her pursuit of the truth. All the while, she is trying not to get fired from her job at the mortgage company and trying to keep her mother, who is trying to fix her up with a co-worker, off her back. Can Laurel find the murderer before she becomes the next victim--or before her mother drives her crazy?
Dying for a Date had me literally laughing out loud and guessing at the murderer, then changing my guess, then changing it again throughout the whole book. Although I thought the pacing dragged a bit through the middle of the story, it picked right up again toward the very exciting--and hilarious--conclusion. I found the characters charmingly approachable, the kind of people I would like to get to know better. I can't wait to read Sample's next book, Dying for a Dance.
Cindy Sample's debut novel is a hilarious romp, dragging the reader along with Laurel from humiliation at her kid's soccer game to a wake where she shouldn't be, and all over the gold country in the Sierra Nevada foothills in her pursuit of the truth. All the while, she is trying not to get fired from her job at the mortgage company and trying to keep her mother, who is trying to fix her up with a co-worker, off her back. Can Laurel find the murderer before she becomes the next victim--or before her mother drives her crazy?
Dying for a Date had me literally laughing out loud and guessing at the murderer, then changing my guess, then changing it again throughout the whole book. Although I thought the pacing dragged a bit through the middle of the story, it picked right up again toward the very exciting--and hilarious--conclusion. I found the characters charmingly approachable, the kind of people I would like to get to know better. I can't wait to read Sample's next book, Dying for a Dance.
February 12, 2016
I've often wondered if I were to write a book, what could I possibly write about because working in the mortgage industry isn't too glamorous or exciting. How wrong I was! I can't express enough how tickled-pink I was to read this book and felt like I was 'at home' reading about loans, underwriters, real estate agents & appraisers. Yes, I can see your eyes rolling now. I loved the author's writing style of mystery and comedy. This book is a lite read that you can't take too seriously. Her one-liners and the main character's flippant attitude had me laughing.
March 27, 2019
Over the top in story and humour but I really enjoyed it. Laurel is back in the dating world but her dates keep dying. Circumstances are too leading to keep Laurel from being anything but a suspect so she and her gang decide to help the investigation along. The author keeps us from figuring out the culprit rather well, until the last part of the book. I think the situations were a bit forced at times, especially at the end but I couldn't put it down.
Read
March 25, 2024Dnf because of reasons- 🧀
October 1, 2023
I wanted to like the characters but the accepted misogyny was just too much. I actually checked the date to see when these were published but it said 2011 and not 1980. The heroine wasn't strong and the so-called hero was an overbearing demeaning ass. He wasn't even dating the heroine and he was already telling her to stay out of trouble and not to defy his orders. Good grief. I'd have bought him a one way ticket out of town.
Won't be reading the rest.
Won't be reading the rest.
August 28, 2018
So boring to me, couldn't get past page 86. I was just reading dialogue.
July 28, 2011
I absolutely adored this book, a romantic murder mystery set in my hometown! What a treat! I will never look at Salmon Falls or any of the other places Ms. Sample mentions in her book, the same way again. I will however, in my fantasy world, be looking out for Detective Hunk. Ms. Sample is amazingly witty. Her character, Laurel McKay, is charming and so relatable to me, having been a single-looking-for-love-in-all-the-wrong-places-soccer/hockey mom at one time. I had the pleasure of meeting Cindy Sample at a recent El Dorado Hills chamber of commerce “Wine and Sign” event. It was exciting for me to meet an author from my hometown and I look forward to seeing her again in the near future, who knows, maybe at the grocery store. I am also looking forward to her second book, “Dying for A Dance.”
September 3, 2014
I had the pleasure of meeting Cindy Sample at a promotional event. I don't normally read humorous mysteries or cozies. I found this to be delightful read and laughed out loud several times. The story is concise and a fast read. I couldn't put it down! Her protagonist is very relatable and has a self-deprecating humor that was also easy to relate to. I also loved that it took place in my hometown. I can't wait to read Dying for a Dance.
January 27, 2015
A divorced mother of two, Laurel McKay joins a local dating service called The Love Club. First date doesn't end up too well. Second one doesn't either. Next thing she knows she's looking like a possible murder suspect and thinks with a little sleuthing on her own she can clear her name.
It's cute. It's light. It's a murder mystery along with some romance. And it's got some funny parts. What's not to like!
It's cute. It's light. It's a murder mystery along with some romance. And it's got some funny parts. What's not to like!
January 12, 2017
The story had its moments, but it also drove me crazy with how stupid many of the characters acted throughout. There was a sense that too many red herrings were being forced into the story, and the final reveal felt sorta flat. Okay if you don't want a realistic cozy mystery, wouldn't recommend if you do
March 3, 2019
Fans of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum will love Laurel McKay, a 39-year-old divorced mother of a teenaged daughter and twin boys, who thinks she may be ready to try the dating scene by joining the Love Club. Unfortunately, things don't go well for Laurel, especially when her Love Club dates end up getting murdered.
The writing is flawlessly fast-paced and liberally laced with humor that at times made me laugh out loud, but there's also clever storytelling at work here, a hint or three of romance, and a protagonist who is, above all, realistically portrayed with a great BFF, a jealous ex, and an entirely likeable, if nosey, mother who rocks the real estate world.
Can't wait to check out the real of Sample's Dying For series.
The writing is flawlessly fast-paced and liberally laced with humor that at times made me laugh out loud, but there's also clever storytelling at work here, a hint or three of romance, and a protagonist who is, above all, realistically portrayed with a great BFF, a jealous ex, and an entirely likeable, if nosey, mother who rocks the real estate world.
Can't wait to check out the real of Sample's Dying For series.
May 18, 2020
This is a lovely book. It has all the ingredients of a cozy mystery - hapless heroine, dead bodies, hot cop and humour. The story is well paced and the mystery interesting. I genuinely liked the main character, Laurel. She’s everything you need in a cozy heroine - feisty, hopeless, cast of awesome friends and divorced. All the characters are well written. A good book where I genuinely wanted to know what happened.
September 23, 2022
This was a very cute mystery. The single mom was great, her half live interest the sheriff was great and I even loved the typical real estate grandma/mom. The killer was plausible and all in all it was an entertaining read. I would have been finished it quicker but I didn’t take it on vacation with me (and I really should have) and then needed to get over the jet lag before I could read for lengthy periods. I’d definitely read more about the McKay woman.
March 12, 2017
A great mystery but funny and fun as well. I love this series of books.
May 6, 2021
When I see laugh out loud in a review, I usually don't believe it. This book is really LAUGH OUT LOUD funny and the story line is clever with relatable characters. I have already downloaded the second book.
March 17, 2017
Engrossing mystery
Wacky exploits of the main character and her detecting cohorts highlight this delightful mystery. At times, I was laughing so hard I was crying. Loved the characters, loved the story, and I hope I love the rest of the series. I can't wait!
Wacky exploits of the main character and her detecting cohorts highlight this delightful mystery. At times, I was laughing so hard I was crying. Loved the characters, loved the story, and I hope I love the rest of the series. I can't wait!
September 1, 2010
Laurel McKay, a recently divorced soccer mom who works as a mortgage loan underwriter, signs up for a six-month membership with a dating service called The Love Club. Her first date ends abruptly after she breaks her date’s nose when he gets too frisky. Laurel’s ready to give it up but can’t justify losing her money, so decides to try once more. But before that occurs, she finds herself the number one suspect when her first date’s body is found in his car with his head bashed in. If that isn’t bad enough, Laurel’s definitely feeling something for the hot detective investigating the case but can’t tell if the heated looks he’s sending her are reciprocal or skeptical. When her second date dies during their dinner together, the police have a large target painted on Laurel’s back, which sends her into panic mode. Before they come for her with handcuffs, Laurel, along with her mother and a couple of friends, decide to do some amateur sleuthing, leading them down a hazardous road filled with danger.
Dying for a Date is packed with zany characters, humorous situations, and laugh-out-loud narrative. Laurel McKay is amusing, her antics entertaining, and her interactions with her family and friends bring smiles as well as nods of recognition. There are several standout characters but this reviewer’s favorite is Laurel’s mother. The relationship Laurel has with her mom, who is a bit jaded and critical, is not only realistic but hilarious. The sizzling chemistry between Laurel and Detective Hunter adds a nice touch to this comedic mystery. Consider reading this book in one setting, because once you start, you will be reluctant to put it aside.
Dying for a Date is packed with zany characters, humorous situations, and laugh-out-loud narrative. Laurel McKay is amusing, her antics entertaining, and her interactions with her family and friends bring smiles as well as nods of recognition. There are several standout characters but this reviewer’s favorite is Laurel’s mother. The relationship Laurel has with her mom, who is a bit jaded and critical, is not only realistic but hilarious. The sizzling chemistry between Laurel and Detective Hunter adds a nice touch to this comedic mystery. Consider reading this book in one setting, because once you start, you will be reluctant to put it aside.
November 23, 2020
I'm used to the main characters in cozy mysteries being a little slow on the uptake, but Laurel took it to a whole other level.
April 27, 2020
Fantastic read!
This book was to die for!!!😃 SERIOUSLY!! It was so well written and the plot was great. The excitement heading towards finding the killer left you guessing. The subtle humor was the best. I laughed so many times throughout the book. The characters were so solid and intertwined with each other like a choreographers dance. Thanks for writing this book. You have given me such pleasure in these days of being alone. God bless! ( a falling tear...)😢
This book was to die for!!!😃 SERIOUSLY!! It was so well written and the plot was great. The excitement heading towards finding the killer left you guessing. The subtle humor was the best. I laughed so many times throughout the book. The characters were so solid and intertwined with each other like a choreographers dance. Thanks for writing this book. You have given me such pleasure in these days of being alone. God bless! ( a falling tear...)😢
September 4, 2010
Laurel McKay is a lovable mom and a hard worker at the office. In her spare time she's out trying to solve a triple murder before she's arrested for the crimes! I never thought I would love a soccer mom, but you can't help falling for this funny, quirky, wonderful woman as she trys to deal with these crimes. The writing is crisp, smart and quick moving - - this is a book you'll love to read!
July 28, 2011
Excellent character development, and a plot which keeps you interested through the entire book. "Dying for a Date" was hard to put down. Enough romance to satisfy anyone, but clean enough to lend to your family or friends without being embarassed. Great combination. Thank you Ms. Sample! I really enjoyed your book!
August 2, 2015
I found this book laugh out loud funny and would highly recommend it to anyone that appreciates a humorous mystery. It was a nice light read and I found it absolutely hilarious.
I know I have found a good book when I find myself laughing out loud. Great story. Kudos to the author. I will be reading your entire series.
I know I have found a good book when I find myself laughing out loud. Great story. Kudos to the author. I will be reading your entire series.
April 4, 2016
I liked the quirky, klutzy heroine and I thought this cozy mystery was interestingly plotted. Not squeaky clean, but readable. Many of Cindy Sample's fans love her humor. I found the comedy a bit too broad for my taste, but it has won her many awards. Probably a good choice for those who like funny cozy mysteries.
November 29, 2010
A fun mystery that takes place in Placerville and El Dorado Hills. A mortgage banker decides to start dating and goes to a dating club. One after another of her dates are killed. Who is killing them and why?
January 28, 2012
Loved this book! My book club read this book last year and Cindy was gracious enough to attend our book club meeting. We loved her and her hilarious mystery so much, we invited her again when the sequel came out! Now we're anxiously awaiting her third one.
July 10, 2013
This book was hilarious. It had lots of one-liners and was pretty clean. I recommended the book to my mom. For the past few days I have heard her laughing as she reads it. I can't wait to read the sequel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews