Shoot First

A Killing to Keep Old Wyoming Secrets and Treasures

LARGE PRINT EDITION 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.



Don't miss Elizabeth "E.M." Danniher's other adventures in

Sign Off

Left Hanging

Last Ditch

Look Live

Back Story

Cold Open

Hot Roll

Reaction Shot

Body Brace

"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 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 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



If you like mystery with romance and a bit of humor, try also: The Innnocence Trilogy Proof of Innocence Price of Innocence

Premise of Innocence Ride the River: Rodeo Knights (includes cameos from Caught Dead in Wyoming characters)