Margins
Caught Dead in Wyoming book cover 1
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Caught Dead in Wyoming
Series · 11 books · 2012-2022

Books in series

Sign Off book cover
#1

Sign Off

2012

Divorce a husband, lose a career… grapple with a murder. TV journalist Elizabeth “E. M.” Danniher will tell you she committed two sins—she didn’t stay young, and she made an enemy of a powerful news executive—her ex. She used to break national news. Now her top story as the “Helping Out!” reporter at dinky KWMT-TV in Sherman,Wyoming is getting a refund for a defective toaster. Tough, funny and determined, Elizabeth wrestles with isolation, keeping a professional edge, and an evolving self-image. Is Wyoming—the land of cattle, cowboys, tumbleweeds, and fewer than six people per square mile—her new home or a road to permanent obscurity? Soon she’s in a battle of wills with ex-football player turned journalist Mike Paycik, who sees her as a handy rung on his career ladder. And there’s the matter of a deputy sheriff—missing or murdered? Elizabeth finds herself investigating at the insistence of a girl who’s set on proving her father’s innocence. Not that enigmatic rancher Thomas David Burrell makes investigating easy. But Elizabeth won’t fade to black without a fight, no matter how final some might want to make her SIGN OFF. Don’t miss any of the Caught Dead in Wyoming series by USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn: Sign Off Left Hanging Shoot First Last Ditch Look Live Back Story Cold Open Hot Roll
Left Hanging book cover
#2

Left Hanging

2013

A Rodeo Producer, Dead in the Bull Pen. Accident or Murder? Elizabeth, until recently a top-flight national TV journalist, is regaining her footing after a dizzying demotion to tiny—and entirely foreign to her—Sherman, Wyoming. But her equilibrium faces a major challenge. The apparently accidental death—under the hooves of bucking bulls—of a rodeo producer preparing for Sherman’s annual Fourth of July Rodeo catches the attention of Elizabeth and her KWMT-TV colleague Michael Paycik. Not only is it a major story about the region’s biggest event, but it’s being outrageously mishandled by the station’s egocentric anchor. As Elizabeth and Michael dig, area rancher Thomas Burrell joins the investigation, providing background on suspects—and there are plenty because the victim had many enemies. But Tom has divided loyalties, so Elizabeth doubts his commitment to finding the truth no matter what. Not to mention that both Mike and Tom show an interest in her ... they might be okay with working together in a peculiar triangle, but the points of this geometry is starting to get under her skin. … From the tip of the rodeo queen’s tiara, to “agricultural byproducts” ground into the arena dust, TV reporter and amateur sleuth Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher receives a murderous introduction to the world of rodeo. Don’t miss any of the Caught Dead in Wyoming collection: Sign Off (Book 1) Left Hanging (Book 2) Shoot First (Book 3) Last Ditch (Book 4) What people are saying about LEFT HANGING “I started laughing on the first page and continued laughing until the end.” “Loving the world of Cottonwood County, Wyoming!” “The dialogue was so well written that I could easily imagine the innuendo, tone of voice and facial expression of each character.” What people are saying about the CAUGHT DEAD IN WYOMING series “She writes a little like Janet Evanovich only better.” “E. M.’s internal monologues are sharp, snappy and often hilarious.” “Hoping this series lasts forever!” “McLinn has created in E. M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.” “While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it's the smart and witty writing that I loved the best.” – Diane Chamberlain, bestselling author
Shoot First book cover
#3

Shoot First

2014

A killing to keep old Wyoming secrets and treasures Death hits close to home for Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher – or, rather, close to the Hovel, as she’s dubbed her decrepit rental house. Her elderly neighbor kills a man apparently robbing her of Western artifacts. As a former top-flight national TV reporter, Elizabeth knows self-defense might satisfy the legal system, yet leave her neighbor in danger. Doing what she does best – asking questions – Elizabeth sidesteps her boss and a nosy, jealous anchorman to inquire into an eccentric and mysterious western billionaire, an ambitious curator, rival collectors, family feuds and Cottonwood County's Wild West crimes of a century ago. Digging deeper into these western murder mysteries, Elizabeth relies on her team of friends who are proving their investigative chops. Before this is over, Elizabeth will need every one of them – and the stray dog she's adopted – as her questions push someone to decide, that no matter who shot first, Elizabeth should die now.
Last Ditch book cover
#4

Last Ditch

2016

Water Can Keep You Alive … A man in a wheelchair goes missing in rough country in the Big Horn Basin of Wyoming. Amateur sleuth Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher and KWMT-TV colleague Mike Paycik immediately join the search organized by local rancher Thomas Burrell. But soon they’re on a search of a different kind – a search for the truth amid western mysteries. It takes them deep into the intricacies of the western community served by the Red Sail Ditch – the irrigation system that could make a ranch viable or worthless. They find rivalries, cooperation, antagonisms, inter-dependencies, and motives for murder. ... Or Get You Killed. Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures: Sign Off (Book 1) Left Hanging (Book 2) Shoot First (Book 3) Last Ditch (Book 4) Look Live (Book 5) Back Story (Book 6), coming in 2017
Look Live book cover
#5

Look Live

2016

"There’s a body in my bed. A dead body." The call from a friend staying at Sherman’s newest – okay, only – B&B starts Elizabeth Margaret “E.M.” Danniher on a twisting, turning journey where appearances not only deceive, they turn deadly. When her TV reporter friend Wardell Yardley comes to visit, they take a weekend trip to Yellowstone Park and encounter a surprising set of people. Including a team-building group from social media mega-force VisageTome, a mysterious older couple, and someone from Elizabeth’s childhood. Elizabeth senses undercurrents in this strange assortment that just about pull her and her friends underwater for good when everyone shows up in her tiny Sherman, Wyoming, town. Not only is there a murder to solve – and fast – there’s also a new sheriff in town, whose No. 1 rule might be No Sleuthing By Journalists. Look Live is a TV news term. A reporter appears to be live at a scene, perhaps for an introduction or the toss back to the anchor desk, but in fact the entire report is taped. A misleading perception, carefully set up. Ah, the dangers of deceiving appearances … Elizabeth, her KWMT-TV colleague Mike Paycik, rancher Tom Burrell, and their supporting staff of idiosyncratic sleuths untangle what happens when it’s not enough to merely … LOOK LIVE. Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures Sign Off (Book 1) Left Hanging (Book 2) Shoot First (Book 3) Last Ditch (Book 4) Look Live (Book 5) Back Story (Book 6), coming in 2017
Back Story book cover
#6

Back Story

2017

Even long memories fade, but murder never dies. Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher has been among TV journalism’s elite. But divorcing her network exec husband ends not only her marriage but her career, and she’s banished to tiny KWMT-TV in Sherman, Wyoming, to finish out her contract. Now she’s exploring what comes next – in her career, her life, and her relationships with family, friends, and those who’d like to be more than friends. But she’s not being left in peace to wrestle with these issues because she keeps being drawn in to murder investigations. Now Elizabeth, and handsome KWMT colleague Mike Paycik, rugged rancher Thomas Burrell, and her colorful cast of collaborators, plunge into mysteries from the past that threaten the present. To succeed, they must untangle characters and plotlines from a long-hidden Back Story . Don’t miss any of the Caught Dead in Wyoming Sign Off Left Hanging Shoot First Last Ditch Look Live Back Story Cold Open Hot Roll Reaction Shot Body Brace Cross Talk Air Ready Cue Up "While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it's the smart and witty writing that I loved the best." – Diane Chamberlain, bestselling author "Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page." — Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling author What readers are saying about the Caught Dead in Wyoming "A terrific series with a western flair... Great characters that you would want as your friends. Smart, funny, but not perfect." "I love the whole series Caught Dead in Wyoming. The writing is witty and sharp; the story is gripping; and the characters are so realistic. Even the supporting characters are fully defined and interesting. What I didn’t expect was a renewed appreciation given by this 'inside' view of the world of journalism. With all the current focus on Fake News, I loved being reminded of how vital news people are to our society. E.M. Danniher changes her community and certain individuals – for the better – due to her dogged pursuit of truth and justice." "I confess to being addicted to this series and characters. I LIKE them. I wish they were real." “Hoping this series lasts forever!” “E.M.’s internal monologues are sharp, snappy and often hilarious.” “McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.” More mystery from Patricia McLinn Secret Sleuth series Death on the Diversion Death on Torrid Avenue Death on Beguiling Way Death on Covert Circle Death on Shady Bridge Death on Carrion Lane Death on ZigZag Trail Death on Puzzle Place The Innocence Trilogy Proof of Innocence Price of Innocence Premise of Innocence Ride the Rodeo Knights (includes cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters) About the Author Patricia McLinn is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 60 published novels cited by readers and reviewers for wit and vivid characterization. Her books include mysteries, romantic suspense, contemporary romance, historical romance and women’s fiction. They have topped bestseller lists and won numerous awards. McLinn spent more than 20 years as an editor at The Washington Post after stints as a sports writer (Rockford, Ill.) and assistant sports editor (Charlotte, N.C.). She received BA and MSJ degrees from Northwestern University. Now living in Kentucky,
Cold Open book cover
#7

Cold Open

2018

As spring beckons, winter chill remains … In television, a cold open sometimes rolls before the opening credits, often a teaser to news or a feature to follow. For TV journalist Elizabeth Margaret “E.M.” Danniher, a nippy March and April are just a tease for spring after a long Wyoming winter. In her short time in Sherman, she’s learned that winter starts in October and might not end until June. Since last June, a series of murders have tested her and her KWMT-TV colleagues’ reporting – and amateur sleuth—skills. And the small town’s rumor mill is churning about her relationship with handsome sports reporter Mike Paycik – or is it rugged rancher Tom Burrell? As winter winds down, Elizabeth is ready for spring and looking for a place of her own. Ah, a little peace and quiet as she begins to settle in Cottonwood County. That is, until she discovers homicide at her front door. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Cold Open, Book 7 of USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn's Caught Dead in Wyoming series, is a smart, surprising, fast-paced cozy mystery series with humor and a touch of romance that will entertain fans of Craig Johnson, Sue Grafton and J.D. Robb. "Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page." — Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling author Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures: Sign Off Left Hanging Shoot First Last Ditch Look Live Back Story Cold Open What readers are saying about the Caught Dead in Wyoming series: “She writes a little like Janet Evanovich only better.” “E.M.’s internal monologues are sharp, snappy and often hilarious.” "A terrific series with a western flair... Great characters that you would want as your friends. Smart, funny, but not perfect." “Hoping this series lasts forever!” “McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.” If you like mystery/suspense with a hint of romance and humor, try also: Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (which includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters) Proof of Innocence (set in Virginia)
Hot Roll book cover
#8

Hot Roll

2019

One of their own becomes a target… Hot Roll is a broadcast term. It can simply mean cutting away from an interview to "b-roll" (scene-setting or explanatory footage) or it can mean the adrenaline-pumping drama of broadcast live from a bureau or TV truck because there’s no time to do anything else. The horrible news that Jennifer’s dear friend has died starts TV reporter Elizabeth Danniher, with friends Mike, Tom and Diana plus the rest of the Caught Dead in Wyoming crew, on an investigation that moves faster—and closer to them—than any of them could ever expect. One of their own becomes a target and they race time and a murderer before this Hot Roll burns them all. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Hot Roll, Book 8 of the Caught Dead in Wyoming series, is a smart, surprising, fast-paced cozy mystery with humor. If you like quirky characters, hints of romance and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn’s page-turner. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures: Sign Off Left Hanging Shoot First Last Ditch Look Live Back Story Cold Open Hot Roll Reaction Shot "While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it's the smart and witty writing that I loved the best." – Diane Chamberlain, bestselling author "Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page." — Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling author What readers are saying about the Caught Dead in Wyoming series: “McLinn's mysteries set in Wyoming are addictive. The writing is excellent, the twists and turns keep the brain engaged, and Elizabeth's wry commentary keeps a smile on my face.” “E.M.’s internal monologues are sharp, snappy and often hilarious.” "A terrific series with a western flair... Great characters that you would want as your friends. Smart, funny, but not perfect." “There's a real love for wide-open spaces in McLinn's writing, and it's a pleasure to visit the world she so beautifully creates. Can't wait for the next book(s)!” “McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.” More cozy mystery from Patricia McLinn: Secret Sleuth series Death on the Diversion Death on Torrid Ave. Death on Beguiling Way (2019) Death on Covert Circle (2020) Mystery with romance Proof of Innocence Price of Innocence (2019) Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters) About the Author USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn spent more than 20 years as an editor at the Washington Post after stints as a sports writer (Rockford, Ill.) and assistant sports editor (Charlotte, N.C.). She received BA and MSJ degrees from Northwestern University. McLinn is the author of more than 47 published novels, which are cited by readers and reviewers for wit and vivid characterization.
Reaction Shot book cover
#9

Reaction Shot

Caught Dead in Wyoming, Book 9

2020

In the rough country of Wyoming, some cattle rustlers still get a death sentence. Official consumer advocate and unofficial Investigative reporter Elizabeth Margaret Danniher, her KWMT-TV colleague Mike Paycik, rancher Tom Burrell, and their supporting staff of idiosyncratic sleuths take on another mystery. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Reaction Shot, Book 9 of the Caught Dead in Wyoming series, is a smart, surprising, fast-paced cozy mystery with humor. If you like quirky characters, hints of romance and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn’s page-turner. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures: Sign Off Left Hanging Shoot First Last Ditch Look Live Back Story Cold Open Hot Roll Reaction Shot
Body Brace book cover
#10

Body Brace

2021

Everything can change … except murder. In the television production world, a body brace is used to shift the weight of the camera to the operator's shoulder. This allows for smoother shots than might be obtainable by handheld operation. Braces also reduce stress on the arms, which reduces tiredness and muscle cramps during filming. And, at the small-town Wyoming TV station KWMT, cameras are older and bulkier than those used in network news-gathering. Almost as old as some of the equipment used in a historical re-creation that draws Elizabeth and friends into another investigation. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Body Brace, Book 10 of the Caught Dead in Wyoming series, is a smart, surprising, fast-paced cozy mystery with humor. If you like quirky characters, hints of romance and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn’s page-turner.
Cross Talk book cover
#11

Cross Talk

2022

Breaking news: Storm clouds at the station Every TV news viewer has seen the side effects of too much cross talk: a live debate devolves into chaos, an interviewer and her subject don’t connect on key questions and answers, a news anchor’s flow is disrupted by missed signals. Sometimes it makes for good TV, other times it just leads to a train wreck. Changes are afoot in the KWMT-TV newsroom, the missing presence of sports hero Mike Paycik and the blossoming of aide Jennifer Lawton, the resilience of persistent consumer advocate/investigative reporter Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher, and the simmering resentment of egotistical news anchor Thurston Fine. The team of amateur sleuths working with Elizabeth, which includes ace videographer Diana Stendahl, is evolving, too, looping in KWMT producer Audrey Adams. Not surprisingly, supermarket cashier Penny Czylinski, who bags all the town’s best gossip and knows a thing or two about cross talk, is the first to perceive dark clouds on the horizon not only in their small-town Sherman, Wyoming, but also in the KWMT newsroom itself. Because something big is coming, and it involves murder, and it’s closing in on KWMT. Cross Talk, Book 11 of the Caught Dead in Wyoming series, is a smart, surprising, fast-paced cozy mystery with humor. If you like quirky characters, hints of romance and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn’s page-turner. Don't miss any of Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures: Sign Off Left Hanging Shoot First Last Ditch Look Live Back Story Cold Open Hot Roll Reaction Shot Body Brace Cross Talk

Author

Patricia McLinn
Patricia McLinn
Author · 49 books

USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn’s novels—cited by reviewers for warmth, wit and vivid characterization – have won numerous regional and national awards and been on national bestseller lists. In addition to her romance and women’s fiction books, Patricia is the author of the Caught Dead in Wyoming mystery series, which adds a touch of humor and romance to figuring out whodunit. Patricia received BA and MSJ degrees from Northwestern University. She was a sports writer (Rockford, Ill.), assistant sports editor (Charlotte, N.C.) and—for 20-plus years—an editor at the Washington Post. She has spoken about writing from Melbourne, Australia to Washington, D.C., including being a guest-speaker at the Smithsonian Institution. She is now living in Northern Kentucky, and writing full-time. Patricia loves to hear from readers through her website, Facebook, Goodreads, and Twitter.

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