Books with author Patricia McLaughlin

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 defective toaster repaired.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 might see her as a handy rung on his career ladder or a romantic partner or both. 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 Burrell makes investigating easy for an amateur sleuth.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 McLinnMurder, Mysteries, Humor, a Hint of RomanceSign OffLeft HangingShoot FirstLast DitchLook LiveBack StoryCold OpenHot RollReaction ShotWhat readers are saying about SIGN OFF:"While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it’s the smart and witty writing that I loved the best.” – Diane Chamberlain, New York Times bestselling author“This is one of those books that you want to stop everything to read while hoping it never ends.”“Sign Off is a brisk, enthralling page-turner” – P.B. Ryan, bestselling author“Kept me guessing until the end" – 5* Marcia "Excellent blend of humor and mystery" – 5* Kindle customer "Endless twists and turns" – 5* Sharon "You'll find yourself one clicking the rest of this series" – 5* Neena Christianson Martin"That was fun" -- 5* Mary“Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page.” – Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling author“Be prepared for lots of twist and turns.”“I read it in one sitting. I hadn't planned it that way, but just couldn't stop.” -- 5* Diane J.“The characters were a mix of funny, sad, and quirky and were totally believable. There was just enough humor to lighten the story, but not to disrespect the seriousness of crime.” If you also like cozier mysteries, try Patricia's Secret Sleuth series:Death on the DiversionDeath on Torrid AvenueDeath on Beguiling Way, coming in 2019Death on Covert Circle, coming in 2020If you like Patricia’s mysteries, try her romantic suspense:Proof of Innocence Price of Innocence, coming in 2020Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)

A killing to keep old Wyoming secrets and treasuresDeath 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.Don’t miss Elizabeth “E.M.” Danniher’s other adventures in western crime-solving with a dash of humor in:Sign OffLeft HangingShoot FirstLast DitchLook LiveBack StoryCold OpenHot RollReaction Shot, coming in 2020"Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page." -- Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling authorWhat readers are saying about the Caught Dead in Wyoming series:“McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.”"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." “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!”More cozy mystery from Patricia McLinn:Secret Sleuth seriesDeath on the DiversionDeath on Torrid AvenueDeath on Beguiling WayDeath on Covert Circle (2020)If you like mystery with romance and a bit of humor, try also:Proof of Innocence (set in Virginia)Price of Innocence (2020)Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)

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 Elizabeth Danniher's Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures:Sign OffLeft HangingShoot FirstLast DitchLook LiveBack StoryCold OpenHot Roll"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: "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.” If you like mystery with romance and a bit of humor, try also:Proof of Innocence (set in Virginia)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 AuthorUSA 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 45 published novels, which are 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 regional and national awards. She has spoken about writing from Melbourne, Australia, to Washington, D.C., including being a guest-speaker at the Smithsonian Institution.

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 defective toaster repaired.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 might see her as a handy rung on his career ladder or a romantic partner or both. 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 Burrell makes investigating easy for an amateur detective.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 McLinnMurder, Mysteries, Humor, a Hint of RomanceSign OffLeft HangingShoot FirstLast DitchLook LiveBack StoryCold OpenHot RollReaction Shot, coming in 2020What readers are saying about SIGN OFF:"While the mystery itself is twisty-turny and thoroughly engaging, it’s the smart and witty writing that I loved the best.” – Diane Chamberlain, New York Times bestseller“This is one of those books that you want to stop everything to read while hoping it never ends.”“Sign Off is a brisk, enthralling page-turner”– P.B. Ryan, bestselling author“Kept me guessing until the end" – 5* Marcia"Excellent blend of humor and mystery" – 5* Kindle customer"You'll find yourself one-clicking the rest of this series" – 5* Neena Christianson Martin"That was fun" -- 5* Mary“Colorful characters, intriguing, intelligent mystery, plus the state of Wyoming leaping off every page.” – Emilie Richards, USA Today bestselling author“Be prepared for lots of twist and turns.”“I read it in one sitting. I hadn't planned it that way, but just couldn't stop.” -- 5* Diane J.“The characters were a mix of funny, sad and quirky, and were totally believable. There was just enough humor to lighten the story, but not to disrespect the seriousness of crime.”"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!”If you like mystery with romance and a bit of humor, try also:Proof of Innocence (set in Virginia)Price of Innocence (2019)Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (which includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)About the AuthorUSA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn is the author of more than 45 published novels, which are cited by readers and reviewers for wit and vivid characterization. Her books include mysteries, romantic suspense, contemporary romances, historical romances and women’s fiction. They have topped bestseller lists and won numerous awards.

Open House to MurderElizabeth Margaret “E.M.” Danniher finds house hunting in Cottonwood County, Wyoming difficult, but deadly? That she never expected. In television, a cold open rolls before the credits, pitching the viewer into the news story. That’s how Elizabeth and her cohorts feel after she finds a body in a house for sale.A victim with a hidden history, few suspects, and the sheriff’s department not happy having Elizabeth -- and amateur sleuth thorn in their sides -- as the closest thing they have to a witness. Mike, Diana, Tom and the rest jump in to dig in.Elizabeth has her own problems, including a trip back east to wrest her belongings from storage and the clutches of her ex. And the question of whether the cold will ever end…~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Cold Open is Book 7 of USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn's Caught Dead in Wyoming cozy mystery series. If you like quirky characters, hints of romance, and twists you won't see coming, then you'll love this page-turner."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 OffLeft Hanging Shoot First Last DitchLook LiveBack StoryCold OpenHot RollWhat readers are saying about the Caught Dead in Wyoming series:“McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.”"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." “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!”If you like mystery with romance and a bit of humor, try also:Proof of Innocence (set in Virginia)Price of Innocence (2019)Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (which includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)About the AuthorUSA 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 45 published novels, which are 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. Now living in Northern Kentucky, McLinn loves to hear from readers through her website, Facebook and Twitter.

Jack and Maggie are two children who seek to find treasures in an adventure on the open seas. Before they have a chance to find that adventure, a storm lets them know that home may not be so boring after all. While being tossed to and fro, Maggie and Jack know that they need to help each other to survive. What they find waiting for them as they return beaten and bruised from their trip is far more precious than any treasure would be. Take the trip with Jack and Maggie and find out what they both learned.

Far Hills Ranch has bound together the Susland family for nearly a century and a half. For just as long, there’s been a legend that the ranch and its family are cursed. Now, says the legend, the current generation is the last with a chance to break the curse.A stranger rescues her, then disappears when she needs him most... Until he knocks on her door, years later and half a world away...On assignment in distant Santa Estella, hardheaded journalist Kendra Jenner finds herself in the middle of a vicious hurricane . . . and unexpectedly in the arms of a stranger who speaks virtually no English. Fear leads to passion that months later leads to a baby, which Kendra fully expects to raise on her own, since her search for the father is a fruitless one. Three years later, "Paulo" shows up at her Wyoming home, identifying himself as Daniel Delligati. He says he's come for his son -- and for her.Can they have a second chance at love ... when they never had a first chance?“A beautifully crafted story revolving around two of the most determined characters you'll ever meet, both of whom want only what is right, and best, for the little boy conceived out of what was perhaps only a desperate affirmation of life in a life-threatening situation ... or perhaps the beginning of a love that runs deeper than fear and self-doubt and recriminations. Daniel is a hero to die for, at once vulnerable and courageous, gentle, and iron-willed. ... A thoroughly enjoyable read." -- From 5* review by Karen Templeton"...bursting with wonderful Patricia McLinn romantic touches -- powerful characters, strong interplay and fiery moments." -- Romantic Times~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Lost and Found Groom, by USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn, begins the contemporary western romance series A Place Called Home. It delivers an emotional, compelling adventure with international intrigue, at the same time the first element of the curse tests the strength and heart of the family that calls Far Hills Ranch home.Read all of the A Place Called Home series!Lost and Found GroomAt the Heart’s CommandHidden in a Heartbeat~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Readers Praise A Place Called Home:“Great romance. Page turner.”“Very intense in places, both with love and adventure.”“So different from other romance novels…amazing.”“Liked the twists and turns.”“I couldn't put it down. I bought the second book, At the Heart's Command. As soon as I finish it, I will buy Hidden in a Heartbeat.” “If you love emotional stories with complex characters, especially strong heroines and heart-stopping heroes, don't miss this!”“A book you will read more than once.”“Just the right balance of romance, action and mystery.”If you especially enjoy western romances, also try these other books by Patricia:The Bardville, Wyoming Trilogy A Stranger in the Family A Stranger to Love The Rancher Meets His MatchWyoming Wildflowers series Wyoming Wildflowers: The Beginning (series prequel) Almost a Bride Match Made in Wyoming My Heart Remembers -- A New World (prequel to Jack’s Heart) Jack’s Heart -- Rodeo Nights (prequel to Where Love Lives) Where Love Lives A Cowboy WeddingHistorical western romance Widow Woman Courting a Cowboy... and east of the Mississippi, try:The Wedding Series Prelude to a Wedding Wedding Party Grady's Wedding The Runaway Bride The Christmas Princess -- Hoops (prequel to The Surprise Princess) The Surprise Princess -- Not a Family Man (prequel to The Forgotten Prince) The Forgotten PrinceMarry Me series Wedding of the Century The Unexpected Wedding Guest A Most Unlikely WeddingBaby Blues and Wedding Bells

Wildflowers have to be strong and resilient to bloom amid the rugged beauty of Wyoming – and so do the women. Valerie Trimarco is very pregnant, very lost, very alone, and very stuck in a Wyoming snow storm. Her car is jammed in a Wyoming ditch, with contractions coming faster and harder … when her white knight in a cowboy hat arrives. Ranch foreman Jack Ralston’s job is to handle anything that needs handling with cool, quiet competence, including a baby who’s decided to enter the world right now.A few years later, Valerie returns to the Slash-C Ranch of Knighton, Wyoming. Now a successful mommy blogger, she wants to thank the man who rescued her and delivered her beloved daughter. Okay, maybe she’s wondered about him a time or two over the years. How could she not? So she conspires with his employers and friends to spring a surprise party on him for a proper thank you.Yes, Jack can handle anything. Except a surprise party. And this open, energetic, talkative woman and her short-stuff kid who gets under his guard. Because they demand the one thing from him that he can’t handle – love.~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Jack’s Heart brings emotional impact to this romantic comedy addition to the contemporary western romance collection Wyoming Wildflowers from award-winning and USA Today bestselling author Patricia McLinn. You can find out more about Valerie Trimarco’s story in the prequel, A New World. And the new A Cowboy Wedding picks up where Jack’s Heart leaves off, with a shindig at the Slash-C Ranch.~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Get all the blooms in the Wyoming Wildflowers Series!Prequel — Wyoming Wildflowers: The Beginning (Snowberry)Almost a Bride* (Indian Paintbrush)Match Made in Wyoming* (Fireweed)My Heart Remembers* (Bur Marigold)A New World (prequel to Jack’s Heart)Jack’s Heart (Yellow Monkeyflower)Rodeo Nights (prequel to Where Love Lives)Where Love Lives (Threadleaf Phacelia)A Cowboy Wedding* Wyoming Wildflowers Trilogy Boxed Set (3 Books in 1)Or get the entire Wyoming Wildflowers collection (Books 1-6, plus prequels) for one great price .... Wyoming Wildflowers: The Collection ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~Reader reviews for Patricia McLinn’s Wyoming Wildflowers stories:“Each one was totally different, characters were unique and totally believable!! Enjoy!!!“Amazing and touching story.”"If you love to laugh; love to cry; or love to laugh and cry at the same time, then you'll definitely want to read Almost a Bride.""Smart, stubborn and irresistible."“… So enjoyable I couldn’t put it down until I finished it.”“Excellent book! I read it straight in one whole day. Recommend it to anyone!” “Delightful!””Nothing short of heart consuming and thrilling. I've loved every one and feel like I know the people personally. I can't wait for the next installment.”

Medals can be won, careers can be made, hearts can be saved.A roller coaster of emotions that touched me and kept me glued to my Kindle" -- Diane 5* From the pomp of Opening Ceremonies to the good-byes of Closing Ceremonies, three women's hearts are tested during the Winter Olympics. Tessa Rutledge, an Olympic champion figure skater, returns as a coach, encountering her first love – and heartbreak – and testing her ability to forgive. Alpine skier Kyle Armstrong has made a mistake that could cost her Olympic gold and any hope of reconciling with the man she loves. Biathlete Rikki Lodge is just happy to be at the Games, until she meets an Olympic hockey player who demands that she puts everything on the line -- in competition, in love, and in life.Let The Games begin!"THE GAMES is your ticket behind the cameras and inside the hearts of the Winter Olympics." --Carla Neggers, New York Times bestselling author

A Killing to Keep Old Wyoming Secrets and TreasuresDeath 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.Don’t miss Elizabeth Danniher’s other Caught Dead in Wyoming adventures in:Sign OffLeft HangingLast DitchLook LiveBack StoryCold OpenHot Roll (fall 2019)What readers are saying about the Caught Dead in Wyoming series:“McLinn has created in E.M. a female protagonist who is flawed but likable, never silly or cartoonish, and definitely not made of cardboard.”"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."“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!”If you like mystery with romance and a bit of humor, try also:Proof of Innocence (set in Virginia)Price of Innocence (2019)Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (which includes scenes in fictional Sherman, Wyoming, and cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)About the AuthorUSA 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 45 published novels, which are cited by readers and reviewers for wit and vivid characterization. Her books include mysteries, romantic suspense, contemporary western romances, contemporary romances elsewhere in the world, historical romances, and women’s fiction. They have topped bestseller lists and won numerous awards.