Murder at Dawn

Wintergreen Mysteries #4

by Patrick Kelly

A Lovers’ Quarrel, a Blue-Handled Knife, and a Puzzling MurderKim Wiley has finally found the right partner. She’s had bad experiences with love, but her tumultuous past has given way to a romantic serenity. Her new girlfriend is exotic, witty, and beautiful, and Kim is dancing on the clouds.

But when her lover breaks up with her one morning, Kim is shaken to the core. Kim begs for another chance, is rejected, and becomes enraged. After a vicious argument, Kim hops in her truck and roars away.

Two hours later, the body of Kim’s lover is discovered, stabbed with a blue knife from Kim’s café. The evidence against Kim is overwhelming, and Nelson County’s prosecuting attorney senses a quick victory. That’s when Kim calls her friend, the retired detective Bill O’Shea.

Despite the evidence, Bill believes Kim is innocent, and he’ll use every trick he knows to prove it.

If you love beautiful mountain settings, a charming cast, and intriguing plot twists, you're going to love the Wintergreen Mystery Series!

This classic, traditional mystery employs a basic three-part - murder - search for the villain - all is well. Can you figure out whodunit before Bill?

Genres: Mystery

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 30, 2024

About the author

Patrick Kelly has deep roots in Virginia. His mother grew up in Crozet, and he fondly remembers feeding chickens and picking peaches on his grandparents’ farm. Later, he graduated from the University of Virginia. His extended family has held reunions in Staunton, Hampton, Natural Bridge, Gordonsville, Afton, Smith Mountain Lake, and Wintergreen.

Patrick and his wife spend their summers in Wintergreen, hiking mountain trails, sampling local wines, and marveling at nature’s beauty. The Blue Ridge Mountains provide the perfect setting for retired detective Bill O'Shea to match wits with scheming murderers.

If you have a fondness in your heart for the natural places on earth, pull up a chair and enjoy a classic, traditional mystery set in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Patrick is winner of a Beverly Hills Book Award and a silver medalist for the Wishing Shelf Book Awards for adult fiction. He serves as president of the Heart of Texas Chapter of Sisters in Crime.

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Reviews

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder at Dawn by Patrick Kelly is the fourth book in the Wintergreen Mystery series and the fourth one that I have read by this author. The author brings humor, death, mysteries, and police investigations to Wintergreen, Virginia, a four-season mountaintop resort community on the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Nelson County.

Bill O’Shea is a retired police officer from Columbia, South Carolina. He purchased a condo and moved to Wintergreen several months ago. He’s looking forward to looking at the vistas, hiking, and learning about Virginia’s birds. However, he continues to get drawn into investigations by the short-staffed local police department. He’s been a good mentor for the young members of the staff, isn’t good at office politics, dislikes paperwork, and detests meetings.

Kim Wiley, the owner of a local diner, thinks she has finally found the right partner in her new girlfriend. Then Lily Wolf breaks up with her one morning and says she’s leaving the town in an hour. Two hours later, a neighbor finds Lily’s body. The evidence against Kim adds up quickly and the politically motivated prosecuting attorney senses a quick and easy verdict. Kim calls her friend Bill to help find the real killer. Did Kim kill Lily or did someone else?

Bill is someone a reader can root for and had depth. He is intelligent, friendly, slow to anger, and has a sense of humor. He’s good at getting people to relax and talk. Many characters in the community as well as visitors play a role in the investigation or interact with some of the top tier characters. It was great to see some familiar characters show up again.

The story is easy to read, with good characterization, a solid mystery, and descriptions of the area make readers feel like they’re experiencing the environment with the characters without adversely affecting the pacing. From Bill and Max, his rescue dog, taking walks and encountering a bear and a groundhog to people on the golf course, there’s sure to be something to add depth to the world-building. There were plenty of suspects, and I guessed wrong on the ultimate culprit before the reveal.

Overall, this was an enjoyable and entertaining read. Themes include murder, relationships, secrets, romance, revenge, and much more. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. If the above sounds like something you would enjoy, then I recommend that you check out the series.

The author provided a complimentary copy digital copy of this novel via Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was January 30, 2024.
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My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.

[Mallory · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the Wintergreen series. I have read a couple of them and I enjoy the main protagonist Bill quite a bit. This could be read as a standalone, but the characters do develop more and more from book to book. These are clean mystery books so no graphic violence, sex, or strong language (if that is important to you). There has been another murder on the mountain and at the surface it looks like an open and shut case. You have a woman murdered after getting into a fight with her girlfriend with her girlfriend’s knife buried into her back. But the accused murdered is a friend of Bill’s and he just doesn’t buy that she did it. Luckily the police respect his experience and let him help dig into the case so he can try to prove his friend’s innocence.

[Ferne (Enthusiastic Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

After moving to Wintergreen, Virginia, Bill O'Shea has been consulting with the local police as an advisor following his retirement as a Senior Detective in Columbia, South Carolina. However, he never expected that his participation in an investigation would involve his friend Kim Wiley, owner of the Café Devine. Will it be possible for Bill to assist with the investigation and remain objective?

Did you ever read a series and at the end of the current book exclaimed, This is my favorite! Then the next book in the series is released, and WoW! This is my favorite! A Wintergreen Mystery is that series! The investigation kept me guessing, and although I was suspicious of red herrings that didn't merely seem like detours but roadblocks, the final reveal was astonishing! I loved it!

Another delight is the setting of Bill's condo, with the balcony view giving ample opportunity for wildlife sightings. As Bill has rescued Max, a black lab, it seemed probable that during walks and playtime, there would be more opportunities for interactions between the wildlife, Bill, and Max. I wondered how the dog would respond when he met the groundhog that Bill had befriended earlier and named Mr. Chips and if Bill's intervention would be needed. All who love animals will enjoy the interaction!

Each novel can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, so don’t hesitate to travel by book to Wintergreen today or add it to your tbr.

Highly recommended!

p.s. If you’re new to the series, I also suggest following the author’s social media to enjoy photographs of the scenic area of the novel's setting and wildlife.

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder at Dawn is the fourth book in the Wintergreen Mystery series by Patrick Kelly. The series follows retired homicide detective, Bill O'Shea, as he helps out the local police on Wintergreen, where he now resides. There has been another murder on the mountain, and one of Bill's friends is the accused. This installment follows Bill as he works to clear her name. I've read three books in this series and enjoy them.

Being from Virginia, it's great to read about the familiar areas that are mentioned. But also, the way the scenery and Wintergreen is described throughout the story makes it so picturesque and makes you want to visit there!

In the last book, I mentioned in my review that I really wanted to hear more of the characters stories throughout the book, and this one delivered that! We got to see the characters relationships grow and see where they may be headed. I still think there's room for more, but it was better! I also can't wait to hear more of Bill and Max's adventures together.

I felt the middle of the story was a little slow and I think I had figured out the whodunit pretty early on, but it was still an enjoyable read.

3.5 stars, rounding up to 4.

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun, fast paced clean mystery read. Bill O'Shea is in his retirement years but that doesn't mean he is done working. When a murder happens to an outsider in his quiet retirement town, and the number one suspect is a local, well loved restaurant owner, Bill knows something isn't right. There is no way Kim would murder someone and for what reason? She could lose everything if this becomes a charge that sticks. As Bill gets called in to assist due to his background, he is now in a tough spot in knowing Kim is innocent but following the evidence no matter how bad it may appear for Kim. I really enjoyed this cozy read. It was well written, fast paced and I enjoyed the characters that added depth and threw suspicion from one person to the next. This was a bit of a tangled web that had to be unwound and the story line unraveling it all flowed well. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord. I am looking forward to seeking out more Wintergreen Mysteries.

[Dena · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great introduction to the series even though this is book 4. I enjoyed meeting Bill O’Shea the retired police officer and consultant to the Wintergreen police force. The description of his rescue dog and the antics they get up to is very entertaining. Mr. Chips also adds a nice touch and I hope to see more of him.

The characters are very well developed and relatable. I especially enjoyed Bill’s friend Kim. There are enough twists and turns to keep it exciting. The thought process Bill uses is well laid out and makes the reading more enjoyable. This is a great read which is hard to put down.

This book works as a standalone novel. I enjoyed the author’s writing style enough to go back and find the first three books in the series. I was provided a copy of this book and the thoughts are my own.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 4, it might help to read the previous books to gain better insight into Bill's character. Nonetheless, the story works as a standalone. The story opens up to the relationship between Kim and Lily, demonstrating a difference in their relationship status. Then the story introduces retired Detective Bill investigating Lily's murder and proceeds to change character perspectives. The investigation and character perspectives allow readers to follow the mystery, able to solve the mystery themselves alongside Bill. This is a character-driven mystery story, featuring plenty of suspects for Lily's murder.


I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.

[Lisa Hoak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book that I have read from Patrick Kelly. Although this is not the first book in a series, I was able to jump in and easily read it as a standalone.

Bill O'Shea is a retired detective, enjoying some pickleball and the company of friends. A murder in their little community leaves evidence pointing one way but Bill is asked to assist with the investigation. His friend is picked up for the crime. He is determined to explore all possibilities or Bill has to accept that his friend is a killer.

The book is told in third person multiple POV so it isn't totally Bill-centric. There are several possibilities to this whodunit that will make you wonder. I received a free copy from Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alice Hazelbaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a woman is found murdered in a 3-month rental, the police call in retired Detective Bill O’Shea to help solve the case. As the woman was stabbed in the back, this feels like a passion fueled murder. One of the first things Bill notices is the blue handled knife, an unusual color he has only seen at his friend’s cafe. That along with a scrape on Kim’s black truck that matches a sideswiped sign near the murder site makes her a prime suspect. Not mentioning that he knows Kim, Bill tries to find other suspects, as the zealous prosecutor is determined to make himself a name with Kim’s case! I received a free copy of this book and write this review voluntarily.

[Texas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Kelly writes interesting, intriguing and entertaining stories that are usually immersing. A good constant pace, interesting characters, good dialog, and more important, no silliness or hollywood-style idiotic drama. There is no rehashing of the previous books, thank you, Mr. Kelly. Source: The author, ARCs.

WINTERGREEN MYSTERIES:
MURDER AT DAWN, #4 - An interesting and intriguing story that kept me reading until the last word. Enjoyable and entertaining, and set at good pace, the pages flew quickly in this well written book with plenty of kinks in the investigation. 5*

THE CURSE OF CRABTREE FALLS, prequel - The author's comment at the end of story that this is a Cozy? While not in the league of The Sheila Stories and The Entrepreneurs Series, there was enough interest for me to finish this short read quickly. 3.5 *

MOUNTAIN VIEW MURDER, #1 - No flippantry or silly head thoughts but a clear, quiet cut and dry process to solving the mystery. The author does bring a higher level of investigation, but I am spoilt by his previous work. This well written story moves at a steady pace with interesting story lines. 5*

THE OVERLOOK MURDER, #2 - Well done! Interesting. Good characters. Good story lines. Well written and well thought out, this story is meaty and the reader works as hard as the retired police officer Bill. Dislike calling this a Cozy because this has more substance and real world investigations and proper procedures. 5*

MURDER IN WHITE, #3 - This is the best of the three books in this series. This is a top-tier mystery with good characters that can think and have intelligent conversations. I enjoyed the fact that there so many suspects, the victim was not a nice or likeable person. The murder weapon was easy to figure out but the killer took more figuring. 5*

THE ENTREPRENEURS SERIES:
THE ENTREPRENEURS, #1 – This is my first read by this author and I really enjoyed the book. The writing style is easy to read, along with his vivid descriptions, which makes it difficult to put the book down. The characters are mainly white collar, so there is a deeper level to them. The limited vulgar language and non-graphic sex scenes. Joe working with the police is believable and realistic. As the storylines unfold, there is enough intrigue to keep the reader immersed in the pages. I was steady working on who I thought the killer was and their motive. 5*

THE CARTEL BANKER, #2 (Hill Country Rage) - I enjoy reading anything by Patrick Kelly and this book was no exception. The new storylines blend well with the old making the foundations of the series stronger. There is plenty of intrigue and the suspense exists in good supply throughout the story. I love the fact this book is set in Austin and the surrounding area. The characters are well thought out and have realistic dialogues. None of them are perfect, especially Joe. The pace is fast and the action realistic. Joe is not a superhero and more than once he is an idiot. His action and stunts are realistic for a regular person, no hollywood-styling. He is a good guy doing what is right the best he can. Mr. Kelly is in the same league as Ludlum, Grisham, and Follette. Limited vulgar language. 5*

THE ISLAND THIEF, #4 – I disliked missing the third book but I was not disappointed with this story. There was not much depth about his job, which I would have liked more detailed. The storylines were interesting and all the characters came across as real people. There was good intrigue and had a good ending. There is a short story titled Fresh Faces and Crisp Uniforms included as a bonus. Set in 1939 Australia, it is a glimpse into the life of a woman when her man of two years drops a bombshell on her. 3* for the short, it was way too short but it is part of The Sheila Stories. The Island Thief rates 4*

THE GIRL IN THE TINY HOUSE, #5 - It is sad that the Joe Robbins Series ends with this book. This story is interesting and immersing. I finished it in one sitting since I found it hard to put down. There are twists, good characters, humor and a possible redo for Joe. If you are new to this series start with The Entrepreneurs and read all five novels. They are worth the investment. 5*

THE SHEILA STORIES - Wonderful. Heartwarming. Heartbreaking. This book tugs at my heartstrings. I enjoyed the storylines about everyone involved. The way two stories are told, the past and the present, is interesting and makes it difficult to put the book down. The characters are so intriguing, varied and Sheila is mesmerizing. The vivid descriptions place the reader in the midst of everything happening. This is one of the best stories about a person's life that I have read in years. 5*

CARTER'S LAST RACE - Mr. Kelly is proving himself quite a talented storyteller in several genres. Imagine having the chance of being a 19-year-old again while keeping your 63 years of life experiences. While this book is slow to start, this is an interesting story. The author weaves multiple story lines covering several decades while showing the depths and the thoughts of Carter and his effect on others. The writing style fits the reality of what the character is experiencing as an old man teenager. The energy spent on his detailed training for a marathon was not just about the race but his growth, too. 4*

[Kimberlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Murder at Dawn" is the fabulous fourth installment in the Wintergreen Mysteries series. It definitely lived up to the high expectations set by the earlier three books! Retired police detective Bill is an instantly likeable main character, and I enjoyed learning more about him as the story progressed. I appreciated the way local law enforcement asked him to help with the murder investigation, acknowledging his past experience and admitting they needed his help. His interactions with the local police presence, as well as his blossoming friendships with some of them, add a lot to the story.

Due to Bill's past experience, he is able to conduct his investigations in a methodical, efficient manner, often while working with a police partner. I liked following his process and gradually learning more about the victim, and her relationship with the prime suspect, along with Bill. There was plenty for him to look into, and since the suspect (Kim) was a friend of his (with a lot of evidence pointing straight to her), he was extra-motivated to get to the truth. Once everything was revealed in the end, it all made sense based on what we learned along the way. I especially loved how the culprit wasn't someone I'd even considered as a suspect, but realized in retrospect that I should have. I found this book to be the perfect blend between a cozy mystery and a police procedural; while the crime is serious and the investigation fairly classic, there's no gore or other hard-core content.

Although this is the fourth book in a series, readers who are new to the series should be able to pick up everything they need to know fairly quickly, and should be able to follow the story without having read the first book. (But why not pick up the first book? These are ALL great mysteries!)

As an added bonus, the book is set in the beautiful Wintergreen, Virginia area. Having lived in Virginia for most of my life, I can confirm that the author's descriptions are accurate and will truly allow the reader to envision the surroundings. Mentions of other local areas added even more to my enjoyment of the story.

As another added bonus, Bill has gotten a dog since the last time I "visited" him. Max is a great addition to Bill's life, and I look forward to seeing more of him as the series continues. Speaking of characters I'd like to see more of....I like Rachel more every time she appears. She's a smart lady, and is biding her time. I predict (and hope) that good things are in store for her in the future.

Another bonus: Everyone's favorite groundhog makes another appearance! (Also, he apparently enjoys peaches.)

All in all, five out of five slices of my extra-sharp cheddar! Plus a little extra for the groundhog!

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder at Dawn continues the adventures of Bill O'Shea, retired detective trying to enjoy his retirement in Wintergreen, VA. Over the course of the four books we've gotten to know Bill, his friends in Wintergreen and his love interest Cindy. Book four introduces us to Bill's rescue dog Max and Mr. Chips makes a long-awaited return!

In book 4, Bill finds himself trying to prove friend and diner owner Kim Wiley innocent of murder. All of the evidence points to Kim being the guilty party, however throughout the investigation Bill uncovers some truths about the victim and others in the community that bring Kim's guilt into question. Through many twists and turns in the story, some clever red herrings, forays into the character's private lives and travels with Bill, the reader is let into Bill's thought processes as he brings the murderer to light. It may have been obvious to others, but this reader was surprised by the ending!

I love Patrick Kelly's writing style - I read the first two paragraphs of the book twice just because of the way he described a summer storm! His description of Wintergreen places the reader in the heart of the story before it really has begun.

Mr. Kelly sets the stage by bringing you into the life of each of the characters - you first meet Kim, then you learn a bit about Bill, Max and his pickle ball-playing neighbors Maria and Terry and slowly but surely the story unfolds, bringing into the mix the rest of the Wintergreen crew you've met in prior books. Mr. Kelly is very adept at story-telling and you become so involved with the characters that you almost forget Bill is trying to solve a murder.

Even though this is the fourth in the series, it can be read as a standalone, but the prior three provide some character development you may miss by diving into book 4. I highly recommend Murder at Dawn, but if you start here, you will want to go back and experience the series from the start.

[Vicki Gooding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, how have I never heard of this author before now? I received this book at no cost to me. It is the 4th of a series but the first I've read. It is my great pleasure to now give the book a fair and honest review. The book is an easy read. A retired detective with an even manner disposition that only is manifested in someone with the careful experience of time and matters of homicide.
The situation reveals human character perfectly. For instance, the one accused of the murder is recognizable as someone past hurt, but willing to take a chance, and frustrated that it wasn't working as they assumed. Th one murdered beautiful, mysterious, enjoying the moment at another's expense The one prosecuting who's looking to leapfrog to the top and looking good regardless the work or accuracy. Real friends stepping in to help the accused vs ones who now conveniently offer little or no support. A handsome, wealthy fling, whose also a slime bag. Cautious distrust, and limited evidence and information carefully packaged to implicate one. The books delightful. Some romance, some espionage, some down folksy living, yet a modern entertainment environment of wines and art. Like a traditional who-done-it, clues slowly adding another puzzle piece looking quite different from the first picture they started with. I would not have known that there were previous books just in reading the story. But now that I know they are out there, I'm a new fan eager to read #1

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer in Wintergreen sounds idyllic. Beautiful mountain scenes and amazing temperatures become marred when murder takes place. Bill O'Shea has set in to his new home. Having helped with the local police many times, Bill is called to a murder scene. Someone didn't like Lily Wolf. When clues start to stack against Bill's friend and cafe owner, Kim, he must race against time and a overzealous commonwealth attorney to find another suspect. Who else could have murdered Lily? With little known information about the victim, Bill and the Wintergreen police struggle to solve this murder.
I love this series. The author draws on his knowledge of the area and the people to make the scenes picturesque and the characters relatable. Add in a mischievous dog and a absent ground hog and you will be pulled to keep turning the pages. Looking forward to Bill O'Shea's next adventure. I received an advanced copy. My review is my own thoughts and feelings.

[Amanda Hash · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is, by far, the best in this series! I loved the depth of this particular mystery-- there are a LOT of twists and turns, even though I did eventually guess whodunnit (*pats self on back*)-- and I especially enjoyed getting to know Bill and the other characters a little better. I'm finding myself getting more and more invested as Bill and Cindy's relationship progresses, but two things REALLY caught my attention in this story:
1. I adore police chief Emily. She is no-nonsense, obviously brilliant, and I've never liked her more than I did while reading this particular book.
2. MR. CHIPS!!! This quirky little ministory was the biggest delight in the last novel, and I would have quite honestly been crushed if there was no mention of it going forward. (Please keep this in mind, Patrick Kelly. I came for Wintergreen but I stay for Mr. Chips 😂)
I look forward to the next installment!!

[Kara Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in this series; I’ve read and loved the third book (and have the first book ready to read on my Kindle and the second book on my wishlist), but this book stands alone very well. Bill, a retired police detective, is a very likable main character; he’s living in a relatively quiet Virginia mountain town, although when there’s a crime to investigate, the local police like to get his input. This time, though, Bill’s a bit too close to the investigation, because the main suspect is a local cafe owner he knows and likes. The whole investigation is extremely interesting and I loved the rather convoluted resolution. The writing is excellent and well-edited. I certainly hope there are more books in this series! I can definitely recommend this book; I was provided an arc, which I really appreciate, but these opinions are my own.

[Jeff Benham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bill O'Shea is a retired police detective. He and his dog, Max, live in the beautiful mountain community of Wintergreen. Kim owns the cafe. When her partner, Lily, gets stabbed in the back, the case against Kim as the murderer is cut and dried. It was her knife that was used,video evidence shows her truck in the area and Lily's phone was found buried in the back of the cafe. Naturally, the police ask for him to consult, because as you know, Bill is very, very good at decifering clues, especially with their help and contacts. Before you know it, Kim isn't the only suspect. There are a bunch. The murderer was a surprise.

[Philip Beck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, in a sleepy resort town like Wintergreen, Virginia, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s hard to tell what danger is lurking just below the surface. Sometimes, murder brings it all into the open. Fortunately for Wintergreen, retired cop Bill O’Shea, pulled into the fray on an official basis, is able to pull the puzzle together. Is it a crime of passion? Or maybe something more, maybe much more?
I’ve read and enjoyed Pat Kelly’s Wintergreen stories and the earlier Austin-based thrillers. I think Murder at Dawn is the best one. It’s an enjoyable and fast-moving two-day read. I recommend this book and give it a five-star review!

[Christi Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in Patrick Kelly’s Wintergreen Mystery series, although you don’t need to have read the others to keep up with who’s who.
It’s summertime in the mountains, and retired detective Bill O’Shea gets pulled into another murder investigation, this one involving the local cafe manager.
As usual with this series, the pacing of the story is nice. The author makes the resort village of Wintergreen come alive! Bill is just so likable, and he’s adopted a new dog in this story who adds some cuteness and comedy. There are enough neighbors and friends to keep the suspect pool interesting but not overwhelming.
I’ve not been disappointed with any offering in the Wintergreen series so far, I can’t wait to see what’s next for Bill!

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bill O'Shea is back and has more danger and problems to solve than ever before. When a friend is accused of murder Bill has to prove her innocence which leads to former CIA agents and more in the small town of Wintergreen. Bill's new companion, Max helps keep him grounded and safe. Mr. Chips even makes a brief appearance. All of the supporting cast have a part to play but it is up to Bill to solve the murder. I love how the characters interact together. Real problems and real friends help make the world go round. If you want a wholesome good old fashioned mystery this is the series you should be reading.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

These books are a kind of cozy procedural because there is no gratuitous gore, erotica, or violence.
Bill is a retired homicide detective who has connections with the local law, he gets in on the due diligence as a consultant. The victim has an obscured past and the chief suspect is a local businesswoman and a friend. The plot moves along at a relentless pace with engaging characters, beautiful imagery of places in the mountains, and a real whodunit.
This is the fourth I've read in series and I loved each one.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from BooksGoSocial via NetGalley. Thank you!
#WintergreenMysteriesBk4

[Anne Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this an interesting book. Kim Wiley owns the local cafe & is the town’s best gossip! She’s in love with Lily Wolf, but, one morning she’s shattered when told it’s over, I’m leaving town today. She’s very angry & damaged the house sign as she drove off. Later Lily is found stabbed & all the clues point to Kim. Bill, a retired police officer is sure it’s not her & the other local police are doubtful, but, she’s put into prison. Meanwhile it seems that Lily has quite a history! Lots of clues to follow.

[Lisa Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read in the Wintergreen series and I was happy that it can be read as a standalone novel. I enjoyed the well developed characters and the genuine feel of the town. After reading that the author based the locale on his summer home, I see why this feels more authentic than many books. Bill has excellent detection skills and sorts through the suspects to determine the real reason why Lily had to die. I will definitely go back and purchase the first three books in this series. great new cozy

[Gayle Minor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoy this series, and book #4 is my favorite so far. The continuation of the main characters from book to book is great. And the addition of new townspeople helps fill out the town. Cindy (Bill’s girlfriend) was not in this one as much, but learning more about other main characters (like Mitch) is great.

I did not figure out the killer until the very end which is always a good thing…to stay in suspense.

I really like Patrick Kelly’s writing style and look forward to book #5.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like cosy mysteries, but somehow this just wasn't quite the flavour of cosy mystery that I expected. It was set in the US, and I think somehow I just had a different setting in mind - the English countryside, for example. I found this quite easy reading, but I didn't really connect with any of the characters except Kim. I wanted to know the truth about the murder for Kim's sake, but couldn't really bring myself to care about any other characters. I felt the book had a diplomatic conclusion.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.

[William McEachern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of the Wintergreen series since the beginning. For me, the outstanding feature is the setting. This is probably because I lived for several years in the vicinity where the stories take place. The author describes its beauty and characteristics perfectly. I must say, though, that the characters and plot are equally as appealing. I became involved in the story with a group of delightful characters. A good read!

[Linda Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest adventure & ‘murder to solve’ for ex-cop Bill O’Shea & his dog. Bill is actively helping the police in their investigations. However he doesn’t agree with Kim being the prime suspect. It’s not a crime of unrequited love. Bill’s dogged determination to find the truth pushes him to dig further. Life & death runs much deeper. It’s complicated. There’s a lot of characters (& organisations) involved in this case. Plenty of red herrings & diversions too. It’s an enjoyable read. Check out Old Mistakes & the Wintergreen Crime Story Collection; & Books 1-3 in this series.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, & I am writing a voluntary honest review

[Liz Caldwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first in this series and really enjoyed it. Somehow I missed the next two (though I’ll remedy that tomorrow) and happenstance brought Murder at Dawn to my attention. I’m glad it did!
Kelly has created a likable character in Bill O’Shea, a retired cop just trying to enjoy life in the mountains. When a friend is accused of murder, he joins forces with local law enforcement as he works to prove her innocence. I’ll admit that a small piece of the plot line goes just a hair over the top, but that didn’t lessen my enjoyment. Besides, Bill has a dog now, and he’s a great dog! I’m hoping that either book 2 or 3 have more on how they found each other.
The characters ring true - they’re not perfect, they struggle with families and jobs and romance and bills: the mundane as well as the dramatic. And people get mad at each other and say stupid things, and every now and then someone says exactly the right thing. And the views are spectacular!
Thanks to NetGalley for proving this reading copy.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Add this one to your TBR list!

I loved everything about this book, from start to finish.
The characters are all very life like, the setting descriptions make you feel as if you are there.
I was sure I had figured out who the killer was, but boy was I wrong! I'm Definitely going to get the other books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if you are not a resident of the Wintergreen Resort community, following the interesting characters’ lives through this mystery is a lot of fun. The author narrates the book as if he is talking to you face to face, and leads you on twists and turns to a suspenseful ending. Even if you are not a murder mystery fan, the human interest aspects of this book make it enjoyable to read.