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Samantha True Mysteries #3
Best Laid Plans
No "learn to be a PI" video prepared her for this.
When Samantha True witnesses Wind River's most popular principal keel over dead she knows three things.
He's been murdered Proving it will be impossible. They're gonna think she did it. As she works to clear her name, Samantha learns "Principal Josh" is the king of slime balls. Eliminating suspects proves tricky when half the town has a motive for murder. It'll take the right private investigator to crack this killer's best laid plan.
When Samantha True witnesses Wind River's most popular principal keel over dead she knows three things.
He's been murdered Proving it will be impossible. They're gonna think she did it. As she works to clear her name, Samantha learns "Principal Josh" is the king of slime balls. Eliminating suspects proves tricky when half the town has a motive for murder. It'll take the right private investigator to crack this killer's best laid plan.
Audiobook
First published July 27, 2020
498 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Kristi Rose
53 books257 followersHey! I’m Kristi. I write romances that will tug your heartstrings and laugh out loud mysteries. In all my stories you’ll fall in love with the cast of characters, they’ll become old, fun friends. My one hope is that I create stories that satisfy any of your book cravings and take you away from the rut of everyday life (sometimes it's a good rut).
When I’m not writing I’m spinning (riding a stationary bike, repurposing Happy Planners, or drinking a London Fog (hot tea with frothy milk).
I’m the mom of 2 and a milspouse (retired). We live in the Pacific Northwest and are under-prepared if one of the volcanoes erupts.
Here are 3 things about me:
• I lived on the outskirts of an active volcano (Mt.Etna)
• A spider bit me and it laid eggs in my arm (my kids don’t know that story yet)
• I grew up in Central Florida and have skied in lakes with gators.
I’d love to get to know you better. Join my Read & Relax community and then fire off an email and tell me 3 things about you!
Not ready to join? Email me or follow me here. Thanks for popping by!
You can connect with Kristi at any of the following:
www.kristirose.net
kristi@kristirose.net
When I’m not writing I’m spinning (riding a stationary bike, repurposing Happy Planners, or drinking a London Fog (hot tea with frothy milk).
I’m the mom of 2 and a milspouse (retired). We live in the Pacific Northwest and are under-prepared if one of the volcanoes erupts.
Here are 3 things about me:
• I lived on the outskirts of an active volcano (Mt.Etna)
• A spider bit me and it laid eggs in my arm (my kids don’t know that story yet)
• I grew up in Central Florida and have skied in lakes with gators.
I’d love to get to know you better. Join my Read & Relax community and then fire off an email and tell me 3 things about you!
Not ready to join? Email me or follow me here. Thanks for popping by!
You can connect with Kristi at any of the following:
www.kristirose.net
kristi@kristirose.net
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 22, 2020
Funny and so entertaining
Samantha is a very determined accidental PI who falls into situations that no one else could even dream of being in. She has a best friend, Precious, that is the epitome of what a friend should be and those two get into some very hilarious and dangerous situations. I love this series and can’t wait to see what happens next!
Samantha is a very determined accidental PI who falls into situations that no one else could even dream of being in. She has a best friend, Precious, that is the epitome of what a friend should be and those two get into some very hilarious and dangerous situations. I love this series and can’t wait to see what happens next!
February 25, 2023
This series is turning into a real winner! Good mystery. Funny. Quirky characters. What more could you ask for?
March 13, 2022
4.3 stars. Loved Samantha’s sustain for the murder victim but her steadfast belief that he didn’t deserve to be murdered. I had an inkling of who the murderer was 1/2 way through but the reveal was still CRAZY 🤣🤣🤣🤣, and I think Leo needs to take out life insurance because Samantha’s antics will do him in one day.
Samantha, Precious, and Toby are an awesome crew to have at your back when solving a mystery, they never give up, they have each other’s backs, they rub on each other, protect each other, and will always be up for solving another mystery.
Samantha, Precious, and Toby are an awesome crew to have at your back when solving a mystery, they never give up, they have each other’s backs, they rub on each other, protect each other, and will always be up for solving another mystery.
May 15, 2024
After meeting the new Principal of her niece’s school, Samantha “Sam” True gets a creepy vibe from him. After her niece is accused of a ridiculous act, Samantha barges into the Principal’s office to argue with him about the charges, only to watch him die before her eyes! Being the only one in the room with him (and everyone hearing her angrily shouting at him), she is the main suspect. She spends the rest of the book trying to figure out who the real murderer is … antagonizing many, someone to the point of trying to kill her too!
June 1, 2021
The third installment of Sam's 'just sheer luck' was more endearing, or may be its the characters have grown on me.
I throughly enjoyed this who-dun-it!
I throughly enjoyed this who-dun-it!
May 1, 2020
Predictable but enjoyable
While the protagonist is very likable and the development is overall well done, I found myself a little annoyed that she couldn't figure out the very obvious killer. I had it pegged in the first few chapters, so the fact that she kept ignoring the obvious signs just didn't sit well for the overall likability of the plot. However, I do like Samantha overall and I like Leo even more so despite the predictability I still enjoyed the read
While the protagonist is very likable and the development is overall well done, I found myself a little annoyed that she couldn't figure out the very obvious killer. I had it pegged in the first few chapters, so the fact that she kept ignoring the obvious signs just didn't sit well for the overall likability of the plot. However, I do like Samantha overall and I like Leo even more so despite the predictability I still enjoyed the read
January 31, 2020
Very funny and entertaining for a murder mystery with quirky characters, false confessions and red herrings making it a page turner.
After quitting a job she hated, followed up by finding out that her husband was a bigamist, but left her his PI business, Samantha True has been learning how to be a PI, with the help of her one employee, Toby, her BFF, Precious and frenemy, Leo the cop. But to make ends meet, she is also working part time for Precious and at Ralph's Grocery store. Her sister, Rachel, gets deployed, so Sam and her parents are taking care of Rachel's daughter, Cora, which is how Sam gets railroaded into becoming the volunteer photographer for the Village Garden School. Being dyslexic, Sam, sees the world a bit different than others, and finds Principal Josh creepy, while most of the town is enamored by him. She also has the pleasure of being in his office when he suddenly dies and lazy DB Louney, police chief, decides that she is his prime suspect. Warned by Leo, that she needs to do her own investigation to prove her innocence, she finds that Josh was a con man, like her husband Connor and there were a lot of people who would have liked to see Josh dead. But can she figure out who did it, before the murderer comes after her?
I read an ARC from the author. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
After quitting a job she hated, followed up by finding out that her husband was a bigamist, but left her his PI business, Samantha True has been learning how to be a PI, with the help of her one employee, Toby, her BFF, Precious and frenemy, Leo the cop. But to make ends meet, she is also working part time for Precious and at Ralph's Grocery store. Her sister, Rachel, gets deployed, so Sam and her parents are taking care of Rachel's daughter, Cora, which is how Sam gets railroaded into becoming the volunteer photographer for the Village Garden School. Being dyslexic, Sam, sees the world a bit different than others, and finds Principal Josh creepy, while most of the town is enamored by him. She also has the pleasure of being in his office when he suddenly dies and lazy DB Louney, police chief, decides that she is his prime suspect. Warned by Leo, that she needs to do her own investigation to prove her innocence, she finds that Josh was a con man, like her husband Connor and there were a lot of people who would have liked to see Josh dead. But can she figure out who did it, before the murderer comes after her?
I read an ARC from the author. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
February 28, 2021
Okay. Samantha is...well, she's not exactly settling into the PI business like she was born to it or anything, but she's not doing too badly, either. She's dogged enough to not give up when things go south (and things do tend to go south for her at the worst possible moment) and she has a gift for gathering the right people around her at the right moment.
Which isn't to say things go smoothly. They, well, don't. I mean getting clipped by a car isn't anything to write home about. And then managing to turn the entire crew of PTA moms (not their actual name, but basically the purpose they serve) against her by happening to be present when their favorite principal up and dies makes things a little tough. And then there's the whole being railroaded into being the school photographer without pay and without really being asked. That one just makes me angry on Samantha's behalf on principle.
Anywho. Sam needs to use all her fledgling investigative skills to figure out what actually happened, because the police (Leo excluded) have their sights set on her as the main suspect. Until, you know, they start looking at other people who Samantha is SURE didn't do it.
Good thing the lady's determined because there's a whole lot happening here. I like.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Which isn't to say things go smoothly. They, well, don't. I mean getting clipped by a car isn't anything to write home about. And then managing to turn the entire crew of PTA moms (not their actual name, but basically the purpose they serve) against her by happening to be present when their favorite principal up and dies makes things a little tough. And then there's the whole being railroaded into being the school photographer without pay and without really being asked. That one just makes me angry on Samantha's behalf on principle.
Anywho. Sam needs to use all her fledgling investigative skills to figure out what actually happened, because the police (Leo excluded) have their sights set on her as the main suspect. Until, you know, they start looking at other people who Samantha is SURE didn't do it.
Good thing the lady's determined because there's a whole lot happening here. I like.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 29, 2020
Samantha is starting a career as a PI. She's learning how to be a PI by watching videos. Because she isn't earning a living as a PI, she's working several jobs. One of her talents is photography. She gets roped into being photographer for her niece's school events. Samantha meets the school principal, but she dislikes him - especially as she is horrified to know that he is hitting on her.
The principal seems to be adored - an loathed. Samantha goes to his office to discuss a matter concerning her niece, when he keels over and dies. Samantha becomes the primary suspect and she decides to investigate the dead man and who may have done him in.
It turns out that this is not an easy case, with so many people wanting him dead. Samantha finds herself in danger several times during the book. This is a good murder mystery, with lots of suspects and many turns in the story. If you like murder mysteries that aren't too scary, and in fact are humorous, this is a good read for you.
The principal seems to be adored - an loathed. Samantha goes to his office to discuss a matter concerning her niece, when he keels over and dies. Samantha becomes the primary suspect and she decides to investigate the dead man and who may have done him in.
It turns out that this is not an easy case, with so many people wanting him dead. Samantha finds herself in danger several times during the book. This is a good murder mystery, with lots of suspects and many turns in the story. If you like murder mysteries that aren't too scary, and in fact are humorous, this is a good read for you.
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July 18, 2022No time to sit and read? Grab the audiobook!
Narrated by Jennifer Stoneking, who is pretty stinking awesome.
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AT AUDIBLE: https://kristirose.net/ST3AudioZon
Narrated by Jennifer Stoneking, who is pretty stinking awesome.
AT APPLE: https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/...
AT AUDIOBOOKS: https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/...
AT KOBO: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/audiobook/...
CHIRP: https://www.chirpbooks.com/audiobooks...
AT GOOGLE: https://play.google.com/store/audiobo...
AT NOOK: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/best...
AT SCRIBD: https://www.scribd.com/audiobook/4674...
AT HOOPLA: https://www.hoopladigital.com/title/1...
AT LIBRO: https://libro.fm/audiobooks/978194451...
AT BINGEBOOKS: https://bingebooks.com/book/best-laid...
AT AUDIBLE: https://kristirose.net/ST3AudioZon
February 19, 2023
Samantha True is in the Principal's office at Wind River Elementary School and about to tear him a new one over allegations of improper touching against her niece, Cora, when the touchy-feely Josh keels over and dies.
Of course she's promptly the number one suspect in what soon becomes a murder enquiry.
Previous books in the series have downplayed Samantha's dyslexia but this time it is very much to the fore as she links emojis in his calendar to people, mostly women.
It's the second book I've come across recently in which smoking (and, in this case, vaping) is portrayed as somewhat perverse (considering that I am smoking as I write this I think you can guess where I stand.)
"Best Laid Plans" could have done with a tougher edit as it has a tendency to meander and the identity of the murderer is spotlighted at a pretty early stage.
That said, it is a fun read but I found my attention wandering more than it normally does (I read two other novels before finishing it.)
3 Stars.
Of course she's promptly the number one suspect in what soon becomes a murder enquiry.
Previous books in the series have downplayed Samantha's dyslexia but this time it is very much to the fore as she links emojis in his calendar to people, mostly women.
It's the second book I've come across recently in which smoking (and, in this case, vaping) is portrayed as somewhat perverse (considering that I am smoking as I write this I think you can guess where I stand.)
"Best Laid Plans" could have done with a tougher edit as it has a tendency to meander and the identity of the murderer is spotlighted at a pretty early stage.
That said, it is a fun read but I found my attention wandering more than it normally does (I read two other novels before finishing it.)
3 Stars.
January 31, 2020
Samantha has had a rough year and it doesn't look like it is getting any better. Principal Josh is way too flirty with everyone - even though he has/had a girlfriend. It's funny how Samantha seems to be the only one who finds it creepy when he hits on her. To make a bad day even worse she is there when he meets his end - good thing she is a PI. Loved her attitude about her life. There are a slew of quirky and fun characters - friends, family, cops, and enemies.... So hoping Officer Leo and her make a love connection. DB Louney the officer in charge of the case reminded me of Sheriff Lamb from Veronica Mars. Oh what a mystery to solve.
February 8, 2020
I really liked this story. The plot was interesting and kept me entertained reading trying to figure out who was the murderer. Of course I got to learn way to much about Principle Josh and kind of was happy he died. It was nice to see the returning characters from the last 2 books and meet new ones and see how they all fit together. Most of them were a hoot. Just a well written story that kept me guessing and reading until the end. I loved that it was not a very quick read but had twists. And Sam was the best as ever as she learns more about being a PI and uncovering dirt. I laughed through most of the story.
June 30, 2021
3.85 *** Best Laid Plans by Kristi Rose is the 3rd installment in this fun series about Samantha True who is a photographer, private investigator, and who seems to find trouble around every corner. As she is confronting his nieces principal, he suddenly keels over dead, making her the prime suspect in his murder. As she uses her PI skills and knowledge of the local community to piece together the puzzle, you find yourself wondering who-dun-it and if the random trail of clues will ever actually lead to justice. Although she still seems a bit immature, it is part of her quirk and charm that made his a fun & quick listen/read.
February 4, 2020
Starting your own Private Investigation company isn’t easy…especially in a small town where you went to school with most of the residents in the shadow of our over achiever older sister, and a police chief who wants to lock up the first suspect he comes up with instead of following the evidence trail. This book has a good plot, great characters and lots of humor. If you are a fan of Janet Evanovich’s books you should read Kristi Roses books. Stephanie Plum may rock the Jersey scene, but Samantha True is capturing the Northwest. Definitely recommended.
May 16, 2021
It is a constant source of frustration to me that authors of series i enjoy don't seem to be able to write as fast as i can read. This series (Samantha True) is a case in point. Here a am, having reached the apparent last book in the series, I'm left with the choice of reading slowly or biting the bullet and finishing the series and drifting on hoping to find another series whose characters and writing sucked me in as much as this one did. it's not as if i could write as well --- so--speed up and extend these captivating stories.
July 3, 2020
Squeal
I want a Lady M ! I’m just saying, I can be emotional 😭
This book was a fun and fast moving read. Full of danger, lies and scandals. I want more. From the very beginning this book took off. Sam is a kooky girl. I really want Leo to make a real move though. Please.....
I can’t wait to see who the man in the woods is...Is Carson really dead? If you love Stephanie Plum or Carolette Wren. This series is up your alley.
I want a Lady M ! I’m just saying, I can be emotional 😭
This book was a fun and fast moving read. Full of danger, lies and scandals. I want more. From the very beginning this book took off. Sam is a kooky girl. I really want Leo to make a real move though. Please.....
I can’t wait to see who the man in the woods is...Is Carson really dead? If you love Stephanie Plum or Carolette Wren. This series is up your alley.
July 13, 2020
A lot of fun.
This series is growing on me, and the potential for Sam and Leo to indulge in the chemistry between them makes reading these so much fun as they dance around each other.
The murder and investigation portion was well plotted and I liked how Leo has been brought into a more prominent role in each story. Precious is still the ride or die BFF, and Toby amuses me. Lady M is the cutest sidekick, and I hope we see more of her.
4 stars ⭐️
This series is growing on me, and the potential for Sam and Leo to indulge in the chemistry between them makes reading these so much fun as they dance around each other.
The murder and investigation portion was well plotted and I liked how Leo has been brought into a more prominent role in each story. Precious is still the ride or die BFF, and Toby amuses me. Lady M is the cutest sidekick, and I hope we see more of her.
4 stars ⭐️
August 7, 2021
Adventure , suspense
I love this series and the characters. I have 1 small glitch though, Sam is dyslexic but writes notes, she is supposed to have photographic memories but things don't seem to click as fast as they could, I knew (or figured, who thw killer was shortly in to the book) but I guess that's what makes Samantha a great character bcuz she sees the good in all instead of being more suspicious. She is unfolding and growing which is awesome.
I love this series and the characters. I have 1 small glitch though, Sam is dyslexic but writes notes, she is supposed to have photographic memories but things don't seem to click as fast as they could, I knew (or figured, who thw killer was shortly in to the book) but I guess that's what makes Samantha a great character bcuz she sees the good in all instead of being more suspicious. She is unfolding and growing which is awesome.
November 9, 2022
This series is a delight!! Have read books 1-3 and cannot wait to get into book 4. The characters are well written and fun, keeping you totally engaged until the last line in the book. The plots are refreshing and not like other books I’ve read so if you are looking for a great curl up with a mug of something warm in a comfortable chair this is a great choice. The author does a masterful job of keeping you interested and questioning where the sort is going.
Great reads!!
Great reads!!
July 15, 2020
Excitement from start to finish
The same general cast of characters, a school of moms, and crazy administration make this book the best in an excellent series! Loyal friends, people who believed in Samantha's PI abilities, and family add to the success of solving a murder case. Each book gets better and better. Terrific series!
The same general cast of characters, a school of moms, and crazy administration make this book the best in an excellent series! Loyal friends, people who believed in Samantha's PI abilities, and family add to the success of solving a murder case. Each book gets better and better. Terrific series!
February 29, 2020
Countrylibrarian
Love this series. Samantha seems to always find herself in a jam, fortunately Leo is always there for her as are Toby and Precious. Hope to hear more about Leo's brother in future books and Leo and Sam's future. Great read. Enjoy
Love this series. Samantha seems to always find herself in a jam, fortunately Leo is always there for her as are Toby and Precious. Hope to hear more about Leo's brother in future books and Leo and Sam's future. Great read. Enjoy
March 3, 2020
Great
I am loving Samantha and the gang !! Great story and great characters!! One of those story’s where you can’t put it down, have have to keep on reading as there is so many twists and turns !! I can’t wait to read more about Samantha and all her friends !!
I am loving Samantha and the gang !! Great story and great characters!! One of those story’s where you can’t put it down, have have to keep on reading as there is so many twists and turns !! I can’t wait to read more about Samantha and all her friends !!
July 29, 2020
Nice series
This was number three of series and very enjoyable. Characters are interesting and very well defined. Nice mystery without the gore and graphic details. I would recommend to anyone who likes cozy mysteries.
This was number three of series and very enjoyable. Characters are interesting and very well defined. Nice mystery without the gore and graphic details. I would recommend to anyone who likes cozy mysteries.
September 19, 2020
Really enjoyed this book
I like the characters in these stories; they could be my neighbors or coworkers. And I am titilated by the unrequited romance that seems to be brewing between Sam and Leo....cant wait for the next book!
I like the characters in these stories; they could be my neighbors or coworkers. And I am titilated by the unrequited romance that seems to be brewing between Sam and Leo....cant wait for the next book!
September 29, 2020
Getting to know these characters and liking them
The characters development is building with each book. Now I know them and really like them.
Again it's a quick read with a little mystery to solve.
The characters development is building with each book. Now I know them and really like them.
Again it's a quick read with a little mystery to solve.
November 24, 2020
Entertaining light hearted mystery.
Great series for an easy relaxed read. Likeable main characters, light suspense, but needs a little more romance...hint, hint.
If you like the Stephanie Plum series, you'll like these too.
Great series for an easy relaxed read. Likeable main characters, light suspense, but needs a little more romance...hint, hint.
If you like the Stephanie Plum series, you'll like these too.
February 28, 2023
Samantha True continues to investigate. This series has gotten better with each book. There are still a few things about it that I find annoying and crass but not enough for me to give up on finding out the truth behind her husband and where things are going with the cute policeman.
April 9, 2024
such a fun read!
I really enjoyed this book although for some reason, it would not download to my Kindle & I had to read it on my phone. That was a pain☹️
Loved the storyline. Excellent characters😊
I really enjoyed this book although for some reason, it would not download to my Kindle & I had to read it on my phone. That was a pain☹️
Loved the storyline. Excellent characters😊
February 8, 2020
Kristi you did it again! Man I love this series so much! Samantha is always getting into trouble and there are so many laughs. Ohhhh and Leo! Let's not forget about him...sigh!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews