Dying for a Date

Laurel McKay isn’t sure what she’s looking for when she joins the Love Club, a dating service for professionals fed up with online dating. But she got more than she bargained for when the first two men she accepts for dates end up dead, with Laurel being the only common denominator. Now she’s got one detective determined to prove she is responsible, and another who thinks she might be the next victim. It’s up to Laurel and her rag-tag crew of amateur sleuths to figure out what’s going on.

Cindy Sample’s highly enjoyable book Dying for a Date combines the fun of a spunky and smart heroine with an exciting murder mystery. Chick lit has never been more fun! Readers care about Laurel because they can identify with her: a newly divorced mom, a stressful office job, and the horrors of dating after marriage all converge in this story, and the resulting guilty pleasure will tempt you to stay home in your pajamas with a pint of your favorite ice cream.

Laurel is a well-rounded, believable character, and her friends and coworkers are given just enough detail to impart a strong sense of realism, despite the sensational plot. The mystery aspect of the story is very detailed, and while parts of it are slightly predictable at times, there are enough surprises to keep readers hooked. Sample’s writing style is clean-cut, with clear descriptions, strong dialogue, and an overall good grasp of the English language. The addition of a romantic element helps make this novel complete; there is enough conflict between Laurel and Detective Hunter to be credible, but it is not overdone as in many romantic novels. Overall, this is an excellent entry to the world of romantic mysteries. If you’re looking for a light, entertaining, and mildly thought-provoking read, pick up this one.