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Dying To Date: Love, betrayal, murder—a great first date
When dying to date Mr. Right leads to finding Mr. Wrong—it’s deadly.
Relationship expert Kristina Truly has a proven track record of dating the wrong men. However, her highly publicized romantic failures don’t stop her fans from attending her Finding Mr. Right, Not Mr. Perfect seminars and reading her bestselling relationship self-help books.
After three women are murdered, FBI Agent, Detective Jakes discovers one common link—they’ve all attended Kristina’s workshops. His challenge is to figure out if Kristina is involved in the murders, or if she’s going to be the next victim. One thing is for sure; he’s got his hands full keeping tabs on the sexy as hell Kristina Truly while searching for a deranged serial killer.
Kristina is shocked to learn she’s deeply entangled in Detective Jakes’s criminal investigation. When the brutal killings become personal, Kristina feels somehow responsible. She must help stop the killer or end her career of helping people find true love. Either way, Kristina is in the middle of serious trouble.
Relationship expert Kristina Truly has a proven track record of dating the wrong men. However, her highly publicized romantic failures don’t stop her fans from attending her Finding Mr. Right, Not Mr. Perfect seminars and reading her bestselling relationship self-help books.
After three women are murdered, FBI Agent, Detective Jakes discovers one common link—they’ve all attended Kristina’s workshops. His challenge is to figure out if Kristina is involved in the murders, or if she’s going to be the next victim. One thing is for sure; he’s got his hands full keeping tabs on the sexy as hell Kristina Truly while searching for a deranged serial killer.
Kristina is shocked to learn she’s deeply entangled in Detective Jakes’s criminal investigation. When the brutal killings become personal, Kristina feels somehow responsible. She must help stop the killer or end her career of helping people find true love. Either way, Kristina is in the middle of serious trouble.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2020
215 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
Sharmyn McGraw
2 books9 followersSharmyn McGraw is a native of California and resides in Orange County. She's an internationally recognized patient advocate for those affected by pituitary tumors. After her own brain surgery for Cushing's disease, she found her passion for writing. Growing up with dyslexia, she feared writing so much as a Post-it note; but after her surgery, her passion to help others was bigger than her fear of writing. Sharmyn contributed to television and health journals to shed light on the often-misunderstood pituitary gland. After nineteen years in remission, she's writing about her other passion: fun, sassy mysteries featuring strong, passionate characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 28, 2025
What a fantastic, enthralling read! I was constantly guessing what was actually going on and who was involved. The FMC was fierce and I connected with her. I laughed throughout parts of this book and also was on the edge of my seat. The writing was great because it flowed and made it feel like I wasn’t reading. I did not figure out the end. This was twisty and I loved it. I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in the series!
August 21, 2025
This book had an engaging plot and witty banter I definitely chuckled while reading it. Highly recommend it if you like romantic suspense.
July 9, 2025
Loved this fast-paced thriller. The FMC is witty, smart, and helpful to others while fighting her own demons. There were twists and turns that kept you guessing from a few chapters in. The side characters were so loveable and added great warmth and laughter to this story. I thought I had it figured out, but I was so wrong, and I loved that.I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
February 22, 2021
Kristina Truly has a lot of shoes and a lot of problems. Her business card says “Relationship Expert.” People actually pay to hear her advice on relationships and dating, but her personal life is a hot mess, and her own relationships are just one disaster after another. She has, however, learned not to take life seriously, as evidenced by the nick names she gives to everyone, especially the men in her life. She does a lot of planning for a “good” life connection, but mostly makes bad choices and ends up with regrets. When people who have attended her seminars start dying, she does what everyone does to escape drama, trauma, and murderers – she goes to Las Vegas.
McGraw carefully crafted Kristina as strong woman, capable of taking care of herself despite her occasional lapses of sanity where men are concerned, but when there is a cold-blooded killer on the loose, she is not sure she will survive. (Spoiler – she does survive and rumor has it there are more books in the works!). The pages are filled with hilarity, medication, booze, and murder, but mostly hilarity. Oh yes, and Snickers bars, and OMG she chases someone to Anaheim Hills!
This is not a “serious” book. It is filled with fun, games, hook-ups, drama, and trauma. There are laughs on every page.
McGraw carefully crafted Kristina as strong woman, capable of taking care of herself despite her occasional lapses of sanity where men are concerned, but when there is a cold-blooded killer on the loose, she is not sure she will survive. (Spoiler – she does survive and rumor has it there are more books in the works!). The pages are filled with hilarity, medication, booze, and murder, but mostly hilarity. Oh yes, and Snickers bars, and OMG she chases someone to Anaheim Hills!
This is not a “serious” book. It is filled with fun, games, hook-ups, drama, and trauma. There are laughs on every page.
May 5, 2025
Dying to Date is a mystery thriller book one in The Dying Series by indie author Sharmyn McGraw.
The story follows along with Kristina Truly who is a motivational life coach who puts on seminars and releases self-help books on "Finding Mr. Right, Not Mr. Perfect."
She is quite successful in spite of her own repeated failure in relationships. Daddy issues, fears of abandonment, trust issues, always going for the one that needs fixing, you name it.
A serial killer seems to be targeting women connected to her seminars, women who have attended her workshops. Out of fear Kristina may be next, FBI agent Detective Jakes takes it upon himself to be in charge of keeping her safe.
Along the way, sparks fly.
But before they have a chance to figure out what they are to one another, the serial killer investigation takes a turn.
Sharmyn McGraw did a fantastic job of throwing curve balls and keeping me on my toes. Every time someone new came along, I found myself saying, "Okay, is this the killer?", "Don't trust him...", and "DON'T GO IN!!"
Technically speaking, there were times when the writing was a little confusing, particularly when a new character was introduced, or when the point of view changed. Overall, however, the story made up for this.
I'd recommend the book.
The story follows along with Kristina Truly who is a motivational life coach who puts on seminars and releases self-help books on "Finding Mr. Right, Not Mr. Perfect."
She is quite successful in spite of her own repeated failure in relationships. Daddy issues, fears of abandonment, trust issues, always going for the one that needs fixing, you name it.
A serial killer seems to be targeting women connected to her seminars, women who have attended her workshops. Out of fear Kristina may be next, FBI agent Detective Jakes takes it upon himself to be in charge of keeping her safe.
Along the way, sparks fly.
But before they have a chance to figure out what they are to one another, the serial killer investigation takes a turn.
Sharmyn McGraw did a fantastic job of throwing curve balls and keeping me on my toes. Every time someone new came along, I found myself saying, "Okay, is this the killer?", "Don't trust him...", and "DON'T GO IN!!"
Technically speaking, there were times when the writing was a little confusing, particularly when a new character was introduced, or when the point of view changed. Overall, however, the story made up for this.
I'd recommend the book.
May 20, 2025
When author, and relationship expert Kristina Truly finds herself in the middle of a serial killer investigation, her life is truly turned upside down. She’s a relationship expert, who writes books and holds seminars, but she can’t seem to find the right guy, relationship after relationship keeps failing. Her best friend and detective Peter, tries his hardest to solve this case and keep Kristina safe, but thing are changing for him and he puts detective Jakes on the case to follow and monitor Kristina’s every move, they start to develop feelings for each other but she doesn’t know he’s a detective. When she finds out, she doesn’t trust him anymore and is furious with him. The case takes an unexpected turn when Kristina is kidnapped by the serial killer. Will Kristina make it out alive, along with her sister that they kidnapped to get her attention? Read this book to find out. It’s def a page turner and I was on the edge of my seat in the last few chapters. Hands down an amazing thriller I wld recommend anyone to read!
November 30, 2022
Relationship expert Kristina Truly has a habit of dating the wrong men, but that doesn’t stop her from promoting her self-help books via her Finding Mr. Right, Not Mr. Perfect seminars. When three women are murdered, Detective Jakes realises all the victims attended Kristina’s workshops. But is Kristina behind the murders, or has the killer added her name to his list?
This is the first book in Sharmyn McGraw’s ‘Dying to…’ series, though the others don’t seem to be out yet. Being mainly a murder/mystery fan, I don’t tend to read many books with a romantic aspect to them, usually because I’m too interested in finding out who the killer is. I liked the premise of the book and there’s plenty of suspense in what is mostly a light-hearted and fun read. Having said that, while I liked Jakes, I didn’t care much for the character of Kristina and found her antics a bit irritating.
A light-hearted murder mystery that’ll appeal to cosy-mystery fans.
This is the first book in Sharmyn McGraw’s ‘Dying to…’ series, though the others don’t seem to be out yet. Being mainly a murder/mystery fan, I don’t tend to read many books with a romantic aspect to them, usually because I’m too interested in finding out who the killer is. I liked the premise of the book and there’s plenty of suspense in what is mostly a light-hearted and fun read. Having said that, while I liked Jakes, I didn’t care much for the character of Kristina and found her antics a bit irritating.
A light-hearted murder mystery that’ll appeal to cosy-mystery fans.
August 26, 2025
Dying to date by Sharmyn McGraw is an absolute gem! This book is a murder mystery, packed with humor and just the right touch of romance. I truly enjoyed every moment of it, and literally from the very first page I was hooked. The suspense kept me flipping pages all day long; that plot was quiet a ride and very enjoyable! I loved all the characters, with each one adding their own spark to the story, and detective Jakes really stood out to me the most in the best way. I found myself laughing out loud while reading this because the humor was spot on and done just right. I was genuinely sad when I reached the ending because I did not want it to be over. Thankfully, there is more to come, and I am counting the days until book two drops! I seriously believe this book deserves more attention and I will definitely be recommending it to fellow readers who love a gripping story that pulls you in and won’t let go.
January 15, 2026
A fast-paced, witty, romantic mystery
Sharmyn McGraw delivers the perfect blend of humor, sass, danger, and heart-pounding suspense. The banter between the characters is sharp and laugh-out-loud funny, the pacing never slows down, and the action is nonstop.
FBI Agent Jakes and Krystina Truly make such an unexpectedly perfect pair—full of sparks, tension, and chemistry that jumps right off the page. I loved the humor woven through the mystery, especially in the middle of all the danger. It kept the story fun and fresh while still giving all the twists and thrills.
This story has clever writing, memorable characters, a serial-killer plot that keeps you guessing, and dialogue that feels real and effortless. If you enjoy fast-paced suspense with a small dose of romance, you’ll absolutely love Dying to Date.
Sharmyn McGraw delivers the perfect blend of humor, sass, danger, and heart-pounding suspense. The banter between the characters is sharp and laugh-out-loud funny, the pacing never slows down, and the action is nonstop.
FBI Agent Jakes and Krystina Truly make such an unexpectedly perfect pair—full of sparks, tension, and chemistry that jumps right off the page. I loved the humor woven through the mystery, especially in the middle of all the danger. It kept the story fun and fresh while still giving all the twists and thrills.
This story has clever writing, memorable characters, a serial-killer plot that keeps you guessing, and dialogue that feels real and effortless. If you enjoy fast-paced suspense with a small dose of romance, you’ll absolutely love Dying to Date.
March 16, 2023
What it’s about: Kristina Truly has a lot of snazzy shoes and a lot of problems too. People pay to hear her advice on relationships and dating even though her personal life is a hot mess, and her own relationships are just one disaster after another. When people who have attended her seminars start turning up murdered, the police show up as well as a new love interest and some crazy family members.
Why you might like it: The author has an enticing voice (in real life as well) that lures you into the story so you can't put the book down.
Why you might like it: The author has an enticing voice (in real life as well) that lures you into the story so you can't put the book down.
September 24, 2025
Great story.
I really enjoyed this story, especially Kristina. She’s a real spitfire and knows how to handle a situation. Miss Prissy is pretty badass too!! I like the friendship she had with her group of friends and how they always stand with each other. Kristina is an author that helps people to find the right one, even though she always seems to find the wrong one. She has Daddy issues. When people who’ve gone to her seminars start going missing her friends become worried they will come after Kristina. You’ll have to read it to find out what happens.
I really enjoyed this story, especially Kristina. She’s a real spitfire and knows how to handle a situation. Miss Prissy is pretty badass too!! I like the friendship she had with her group of friends and how they always stand with each other. Kristina is an author that helps people to find the right one, even though she always seems to find the wrong one. She has Daddy issues. When people who’ve gone to her seminars start going missing her friends become worried they will come after Kristina. You’ll have to read it to find out what happens.
July 7, 2022
A fun, witty, suspenseful book. You will fall in love Kristina Truly. She is spicy, sassy, and lots of fun. You are kept on your toes from the first page. I absolutely hated seeing this book come to an end. I felt like I was losing a good friend, but remembered that their will be two more books in this series Sharyman McGraw does a great job of keeping you wanting more, and not wanting to put the book down!
January 16, 2023
Review: I don't know what this was. I think this was supposed to be a somewhat of a police procedural but...it lacked. The writing style reminded me of something a juvenile would write. The characters were juvenile. The plot was decent but the action and the drama lacked. This wasn't exciting or thrilling. This was a free book on KU and I've already deleted it and would not recommend anyone reading. I now know why this was free.
February 6, 2023
Dying to Date by Sharmyn McGraw is a page turner with good descriptions and character development. I enjoyed the plot centered on someone who is a hot mess sharing their fake expertise. It reminded me of my best friend’s favorite saying when we were young, “Fake it ’til you make it.” How fun that the protagonist makes a terrific living teaching hundreds of other hot messes the one thing she can’t do herself. So true to life! --Pat Spencer, author of Story of a Stolen Girl.
May 25, 2025
3.75 star
Gather around single ladies and come join a workshop to learn the dos and don’t of finding Mr.Right. This catchy seminar is lead by .. a woman known for picking the wrong guy every time.
That’s not the worse of it, three women who have gone to seek help have now ended up dead and each death left with a gruesome message.
Get ready to take a journey. The story is witty and at the end things get a bit interesting.
Gather around single ladies and come join a workshop to learn the dos and don’t of finding Mr.Right. This catchy seminar is lead by .. a woman known for picking the wrong guy every time.
That’s not the worse of it, three women who have gone to seek help have now ended up dead and each death left with a gruesome message.
Get ready to take a journey. The story is witty and at the end things get a bit interesting.
October 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ — A Killer Blend of Humor, Heat, and Heart-Pounding Suspense!
Dying to Date by Sharmyn McGraw is a witty and pulse-pounding romantic mystery that had me hooked from the very first chapter. FBI Agent Jakes is sharp, charming, and completely out of his depth when it comes to matters of the heart—especially when that heart belongs to Krystina Truly, a smart, funny, and surprisingly relatable relationship coach who’s suddenly at the center of a murder investigation.
Dying to Date by Sharmyn McGraw is a witty and pulse-pounding romantic mystery that had me hooked from the very first chapter. FBI Agent Jakes is sharp, charming, and completely out of his depth when it comes to matters of the heart—especially when that heart belongs to Krystina Truly, a smart, funny, and surprisingly relatable relationship coach who’s suddenly at the center of a murder investigation.
November 2, 2024
Thriller that keeps you on high alert. The story of KT has enough details that one believes she is a friend. I really thought I knew the bad guys, thought I was so smart just a few moments have it away. BOY WAS I WRONG. There were times that the story was so intense I had to pause my reading. Such a good book.
March 13, 2025
Dying
Awesome read. Loved the characters and storyline. Kristina had been wanting to date Mr. Right but she just kept finding Mr.Wrong. She gave seminars on finding the right guy. Someone got very mad about her seminars. Then you have to read to find out what happens.
Recommend A++++
Awesome read. Loved the characters and storyline. Kristina had been wanting to date Mr. Right but she just kept finding Mr.Wrong. She gave seminars on finding the right guy. Someone got very mad about her seminars. Then you have to read to find out what happens.
Recommend A++++
February 17, 2025
Wow
Just wow i completed the book in record time because it was so intoxicating. From bad guy to good guy in record time.ms Truly has my vote fir badass of the year.Read it it's worth it.
Just wow i completed the book in record time because it was so intoxicating. From bad guy to good guy in record time.ms Truly has my vote fir badass of the year.Read it it's worth it.
February 20, 2025
Too predictable
I lost all interest in this mundane book when the author wrote 'a killer, two killers or a bisexual'. Inferring being a bisexual is as bad or worse than being a killer. I'm surprised this even was published.
I lost all interest in this mundane book when the author wrote 'a killer, two killers or a bisexual'. Inferring being a bisexual is as bad or worse than being a killer. I'm surprised this even was published.
July 30, 2025
Dying To Date is a fun Mystery, Thriller filled with humor. Kristina is a relationship expert who is linked to some recent murders. Is Kristina involved or is she the next victim.... To find out pick up a copy of Dying To Date!!! Its suspenseful yet humorous!
August 11, 2025
This was such a great book!!
I was influenced to read this one from friends, and I was not disappointed! I did not want to put this down and finished in one sitting. Great characters, kept me guessing, and I just loved Detective Jakes!
I can't wait for the second book!!!
I was influenced to read this one from friends, and I was not disappointed! I did not want to put this down and finished in one sitting. Great characters, kept me guessing, and I just loved Detective Jakes!
I can't wait for the second book!!!
September 4, 2024
Skimmed. Free for amazon kindle users. On to next book.
November 24, 2024
Entertaining read. Not happy that it is part of a series; thus romance let hanging.
January 18, 2025
Dating on steroids
Dating on steroids is a game not for the faint of heart. It could be dangerous or serial killer material.
Dating on steroids is a game not for the faint of heart. It could be dangerous or serial killer material.
February 9, 2025
so fun
I loved he characters and the since of humor,
. I could so relate to some parts. It left you to the very end in suspense.
I loved he characters and the since of humor,
. I could so relate to some parts. It left you to the very end in suspense.
March 14, 2025
Stunning thriller
This story doesn’t read like a first effort. It grips and holds you till the last page. I’m anticipating the next story to be even better.
This story doesn’t read like a first effort. It grips and holds you till the last page. I’m anticipating the next story to be even better.
June 28, 2025
This is a nice funny crime thriller romance all rolled into one loved the characters the first in a series highly recommend will be reading next book in series
May 24, 2025
A quick read with funny banter! I Enjoyed the overall plot. I didn’t see the ending coming.
December 27, 2024
This book is hard to finish.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews