Cozy Mystery Review: Dying for a Date by Cindy Sample
From the moment I stumbled upon Dying for a Date, the promise of a humorous cozy mystery combined with the chaos of modern dating instantly caught my attention. As someone who has endured a few uninspiring first dates (hello, awkward small talk and unexpected surprises!), I found myself curious about Laurel McKay, a 39-year-old divorced mother diving back into the dating pool with all the grace of a cat on a hot tin roof. Cindy Sample certainly sets the stage for an engaging tale filled with comedic misadventures and unexpected murder!
Unraveling the Plot
Laurel joins the Love Club, hoping to find Mr. Right—or at least Mr. Every Other Saturday Night. What ensues is a delightful blend of mishaps: from breaking her date’s nose with her cell phone to unwittingly becoming a suspect in a murder case the next morning, Laurel’s dating life becomes a comedic thriller. I couldn’t help but cheer for her as she navigates each disastrous date, including another who vanishes unexpectedly during dinner, leaving Laurel with nothing but a bottle of Dom Perignon and mounting suspicion.
Sample expertly crafts a plot that is well-paced, balancing light-hearted humor and the tension of a murder mystery. I appreciated how the narrative didn’t take itself too seriously, and instead fully embraced the "hot mess" vibe that often accompanies dating in your late thirties. The quirky characters, from Laurel’s no-nonsense realtor mother to her various dubious dates, added richness to the story, creating an entertaining ensemble that kept me engaged.
The Writing Style
Cindy’s writing flows effortlessly, filled with sharp wit and flippant humor that had me chuckling aloud on more than one occasion. There’s a delightful balance between Laurel’s internal monologue and the unfolding chaos—her relatable, sometimes self-deprecating thoughts are painted against the lively backdrop of mystery and romantic tension. At one point, as Laurel realizes that her "handsome" date is actually mundanely boring, I found myself nodding in agreement. Haven’t we all been there? Sample’s keen observations about dating and relationships resonated deeply, lending an authenticity that keeps the reader not just engaged but invested in the outcomes.
Memorable Moments
One standout moment for me was when Laurel breaks the nose of her overenthusiastic date—a moment that captures the absurdity of her situation while reflecting her fearless spirit. This quote encapsulates the witty tone of the book: "Just when you think you’ve found the right guy, the universe conspires to throw you a curveball, or in my case, a flailing arm seeking to devour me whole."
Who Will Enjoy This?
Dying for a Date is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys a blend of mystery, humor, and heartfelt moments. Fans of cozy mysteries, romantic comedies, or anyone who’s ever experienced the dating struggle will find comfort—and laughter—during Laurel’s adventures. Whether you’re snuggled up on a weekend afternoon or looking for a light evening read, this book is a great escape from the complexities of everyday life.
In conclusion, I walked away from Dying for a Date with not just giggles but a warm feeling of connection to Laurel as she fumbled her way through the dating world, reminding us that life—and love—might just be hilarious in all its unpredictability. I can’t wait to see how Laurel’s journey continues in the next book!
You can find Dying for a Date: (A Humorous Cozy Mystery) (Laurel McKay Mysteries Book 1) here >>