Murder at Hay River

n Elk Ridge Murder Mystery, #4

by Anne Shillolo

A picture-perfect murder?

A photographer is killed and abandoned in a macabre display on the banks of the Hay River. Constable Ezra McCann’s home is nearby and his celebrity family feel like they're targets. McCann is on the alert. He also has a strong suspicion that the new nanny is not who she seems, and that’s one more thing keeping him awake at night.

Can Inspector Hilary Casgrain and the small Elk Ridge Police Department handle a crime with international overtones? Or is this really a homegrown killer stalking anyone who gets in his way?

When a second body is discovered nearby, McCann has some serious choices to make. Is his career on the line?

Poachers, a kidnapping, and a courtroom appeal have Hilary and the other officers in a desperate race to unmask the killer and stop the violence. A child’s life hangs in the balance and time is running out.

Murder At Hay River is Book 4 in a new crime fiction series that promises to sweep you up in twists, turns, and a truly unputdownable story.

⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ Another great series by Anne Shillolo! (Amazon Review)

⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ This was a great introduction to a new series. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader involved. What an entertaining, intriguing storyline. The camaraderie between the characters showed how committed they were to the job. Looking forward to the next story! I would give this more than five stars if I could! (Amazon review)

⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ Inspector Hilary Casgrain is another very likable character I can relate to and this first book in her series is action-packed and suspenseful. I can’t wait for the next book! (Amazon Review)

Genres: Mystery

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2025

About the author

I love writing every day and the result so far is three mystery series, and counting. I’ve been retired from teaching for a couple of years, and am totally immersed in my new career as a mystery writer. I hope you enjoy the results!
The Murder In Season trilogy features injured detective constable Claire Beckett.
The longer Poodle Versus… series is a reader favorite. It features small-town action, zany characters, and a Nasty Small Poodle who will capture your heart.
This year I plan to release several books following DC Holly Towns, starting with Goodbye Port Alma.
The Free Prequels to all my series are available on my website, AnneShillolo.com.
You can find me on Facebook as Anne Shillolo Writer.
Happy reading!

Reviews

[Valeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Shillolo is one of my favourite authors, and this series is my favourite so far, although her Good-bye series is also jam-packed with leads, false leads, well-developed characters, realistic and also imaginative plots with complex, often convoluted developments.

What I like best in the Hilary Casgrain series is the personal growth of the characters and the role that actually plays in how the team works together to handle the variety of situations easily expected in a small community with seasonally burgeoning tourist populations. Casgrain moves to this community for a fresh start in all of the ways, including wanting to be a better officer and a better leader, and the presentation of her struggle is real, effective and honestly admirable. I love seeing the rewarding growth of her team relationships, and how it improves their work through their strengthened connections.

This latest book explores more of the community, introducing more of the local colour and criminal tendencies. The typical small-community view of reputations and the acceptance of people being known for their terrible behaviour gets pitted against the tendency to paint all family members with the same reputation or expectations, and that’s where Casgrain’s own experience with reforming herself changes how she treats the son of a troublesome local, turning the case on its head.

When Casgrain makes a colossally foolish rookie mistake, her notable efforts to support and empower her team show up in how her team shows up, with no backbiting or snarky attitude, but a wholehearted effort to jump in to help.

The piece de resistance in these mysteries - true of the Casgrain series and the Goodbye series - is how the evidence, information and small details are assembled to work out what’s going on and who’s behind it. I feel like I’m learning how to solve crimes and build cases to bring justice to bear, and it’s an unexpectedly entertaining aspect.

I’m so glad I discovered this author, and I’ve been lucky enough to get advanced copies of her books so I can tell everyone that I love them, they’re terrific and I highly recommend them!

[Denise Zendel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Constable Ezra McCann and his celebrity wife and baby are the targets of paparazzi and it’s making life difficult at home and at work. He’s got a suspicion that the family nanny isn’t who she says she is, and that keeps him up at night too. Inspector Hillary Casgrain and the small Elk Ridge Police Department have their hands full with the paparazzi, the kidnapping of another officer’s child, and two dead bodies which may or may not have a connection to the other cases.

I love this series. The writing is tight, the plot moves along quickly, there’s a great balance between work life and home life, a light touch of romance, and the descriptions of the locations make me long for a place I’ve never been to. Hillary is a flawed character, but she’s trying (and succeeding) to be a better boss and police officer. I like the flawed parts because they make her seem more real. I appreciate the hint of romance because it’s just that, a hint. The main focus is always on the crimes.

These books can easily be read out of order as the author does a great job filling in the backstory. I have enjoyed reading them in order, however, because I like seeing how things evolve from book to book. I was a little sad when I finished this one because I know I’ll have to wait awhile until I can spend time with my Elk Ridge friends again.

I highly recommend this series. It’s fast-paced, with solid relationships, interesting crimes, and the community policing aspects in a small town seem real to me.

Shillolo also writes the DC Holly Towns/Detective Danny Cavallo (Port Alma Murder Mysteries). The Elk Ridge Murder Mysteries are a spinoff of the Port Alma books, but you don’t need to read one to appreciate the other. I started with the Elk Ridge books and liked them so much I went looking for the Port Alma mysteries and I was not disappointed. The author also writes the 10-book series “Poodle Versus …” cottage country mysteries.

[Rosemary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspector Hillary Casgrain has her hands full. There is a crime wave in Elk Ridge that seems to target her and her team. The murder of a Paparazzi is directed against Ezra McCann and his celebrity wife, Harlo. A second victim found on their property adds to the danger. Then the year old son of Shane Poletti is taken from his stroller. Was the kidnapper trying to distract the Police from the double homicide? I felt that Inspector Casgrain and her crew were up to the task. I'm enjoying this series. The cases are complex and the clues are scarce. So it isn't easy to determine the culprit. Watching the Inspector pull her department together and focus on their tasks
Is interesting. Hillary Cosgrain is overcoming her issues and becoming a stronger leader. She's allowing herself to show compassion and empathy which brings her Team together. I enjoyed the touch of romance that has developed between her and Kendall Hart. Murder At Hay River kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put this book down. I can't wait to read the next book by Anne Shillolo.


L

[Robin Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another gripping police procedural with lots of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Not a cozy mystery, there’s an appeal for a rapist, a couple of gruesome murders, and a baby kidnapping. I really like this series, the reader follows along on all of the steps of the investigation, and also gets to experience the personalities and see the skills of the various police personnel. The evidence re-check for the appeal case was also interesting, and the author explained what might be admissible, and what definitely would not. Well-written with well crafted characters, and an emotional and chilling plot, this was a true page-turner, and I wondered how the author would tie it all together. The mysteries here stand on their own, but the series is best read in order to get the back story on all the characters and their relationships.
I received a free copy from the author, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilary Casgrain is strolling down Mountainview Drive feeling proud of herself for leaving her desk and walking all the way down the street to get a bagel. Suddenly she stops in her tracks. With her heart racing she stuffs the bagel in her pocket and strides to the kerb.

To find out what has changed Hilary's pleasant stroll into high alert, read Murder at Hay River. This is the fourth in the Inspector Hilary Casgrain series with murders and kidnapping keeping the team busy. The pressure is on to solve the crimes and two of the team are held up in court giving evidence.

This is a roller coaster ride of a police procedural thriller. The suspects are lining up and even a nanny is under suspicion.

I really enjoyed this book and particularly liked the sweet, surprise ending. Very much looking forward to the next book to find out how things turn out for Hilary.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and this is my honest opinion.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hillary and the team are overextended dealing with two murders, a kidnapping and court appearances. This case had international involvement and Hillary needed all hands-on deck for this one but dealt with it shorthanded. But with Hillary being smart, fearless and tough she is determined to leave no stone unturned until the case is solved. The characters were well developed and the suspense contained twists and turns to keep you guessing. The story had your pulse racing trying to put the clues together.

I have enjoyed each and every book in the series. The books are well-written and have never been disappointing. The research conducted and details included into every book is outstanding. Can’t wait to see where the team handles next.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series! If you’re a fan of police procedurals, this is a series you should add to your reading list. Readers are immersed into the step by step investigation of two gruesome murders, a convicted rapist’s appeal and a baby’s kidnapping. There is so much going on that keeps you riveted to the pages. The well developed characters are one of the standout features of the series. Each one brings their own strengths to the job which enhances the cohesiveness of the team. Another standout feature is the meticulously crafted and detailed investigation. Each installment contains a complete investigation and would function well as a standalone, however the development of the interpersonal and team dynamics over the span of the series would make reading from the beginning much more enjoyable.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Author Anne Shillolo has done it again in this fourth book of the series that has you turning pages until the great ending. Inspector Hillary Casgrain is on the case of her life this time having to not only deal with two murders, but the kidnapping of a baby and a court case as well. With time running out, can she and her crew catch a murderer before it is too late. There are many potential suspects including the nanny. This police procedural takes you on a roller coaster ride while needing to turn page after page on the edge of your seat, to try and figure out what is going on and who is the murderer and what are all the connections. I can't wait for book 5 and what is next for Hillary. I highly recommend this book as a great addition to a highly recommended police procedural series! I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crime wave in Elk Ridge

A complex series of events and a wild time in Elk Ridge. There’s murder, kidnapping and an old case that’s up for appeal. The officers are stretched to bursting trying to cover all the bases and doubly so when it becomes so personal. Can Inspector Hilary Casgrain and her team get to the bottom of this crime wave before it’s too late?
So much happens in this story it feels like it should be set in a big city instead of the small mountain town. I was immersed in the cases along with the team and felt the frustration and deep desire to find a break. Loved the communal team approach they have built up. Tons of twists and surprises that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I really loved that hopeful ending!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my voluntary and honest review.

[Michael Nethery · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely young lady always writes and publishes totally amazing books! I am not sure if she lives in northern Southern Ontario or if it’s Southern Northern Ontario that she lives, but where ever it seems to be the perfect place to grow brilliant and mind blowing novels!
She knows just how to create a perfect mix of characters that suits the story as well as the territory the story is cast in. The plots are so perfectly laid out and mixed with stunning twists and turns that makes you look for the seat belts.
This is one of the so perfected crafted novels,it begs to be turned into a movie! I know how the book goes and how it ends but I would still buy a ticket.
Simply put, just buy the dam thing. You too will be praising it from the roof tops. This is going to be a ebook I will be buying in paperback for the special edition book wall!
Michael Nethery

[Cmikulasikgmail.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading Anne Shillolo’s Hay River books. They deal with a police station where everyone works together to solve the crimes. They aren’t trying to sabotage each other. Hilary Casgrain arrived in Hay River after having had issues where she was stationed in Ontario. She arrived determined to change and she has.
In this story the station is down a few officers because they are testifying at a trial. Being a small town, they don’t usually have too much to deal with especially in early spring. Ski hill is shut down and summer tourists haven’t started to arrive. That quiet situation is about to change but Hilary and her crew manage to work their way to the solution with some outside help. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspector Hilary Casgrain is back in Elk Ridge and the town appears to be in the middle of a crime wave. Beginning with a crime on one of the constables land Hilary and her team are in for their toughest season yet. I am really enjoying reading how the team is becoming closer and how Hilary is working on making herself lead and delegate, instead of just doing it herself. Just like a real person. Getting to know more about each of the other constables and seeing how they all relate to each other is what makes this series one of the best. Ms. Shilo writes in such a way that you can feel what everyone is feeling. The new characters play off the old and the original characters keep growing. I can hardly wait to see how Hilary continues in the next book!

[Becky Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this fourth book of the Elk Ridge murder mysteries. Poppy is the nanny for Harlo who was a television star and she married Ezra McCann an Elk Ridge officer. Harlo and Poppy were out walking the baby when they came upon a gruesome sight. They discovered a dead body and then there was another dead body discovered shortly. Then a baby kidnapping all while part of Hilary’s team was tied up in a high profile sexual predator case. Anne can have lots of characters in each of her books but she writes them so you feel like you get to know them so well you can connect with them. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.

I received this ARC from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely one of my favorite series .

Inspector Casgrain is short staffed, with two of her officers tied up with an appeals case in court . But crime doesn't stop. The discovery of two murder victims is followed shortly by the kidnapping of the child of one of her officers. The crimes have international ties both as victims and suspects. Can Hilary and her small police department stop the killer and kidnapper before someone else gets hurt?

The story is fast-paced and hard to put down . The characters are relatable and interesting. With each book in this series, I have noticed growth in the characters and the way that they work together. I can't wait for the next book.
I received an arc copy of this book, and this is my freely offered and honest review

[Leona Ennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, talk about being on the edge for the entire book!
The excitement started in the first chapter and continued throughout the book! The author has a way of drawing you in and keeping you wanting more ever after you are done reading.
Murders, kidnapping, hostage takings, escape, paparazzi and threats abound. Inspector Hilary Casgrain has her hands full while two of her Constables are spending their days in the courthouse halls, waiting to testify in an appeals case before the judge, which has left her short handed to solve all the crimes. I like reading series where you have returning characters as well as new ones. If you like excitement, this book is for you!
I read an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another riveting and outstanding book in this series. Inspector Hilary Casgrain is enjoying the beautiful spring day as she takes a walk to grab some lunch. Sirens are coming closer from up the street. She knows something is wrong and steps out to see if she can assist. Once I started reading the book it was hard to put down as there was a lot happening quickly. One gruesome murder was bad enough, finding the second didn't help. Lots more comes in to play as two officers are in court testifying about a murder that occurred two years ago. Complications continue to pop up making you wonder how they can solve the crimes. Excellent murder mystery.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well worth the wait!!! It's been a little while since the last book, but this has more than one murder, a kidnapping, reinvestigation of a current case, and a sprinkle of a love match to come. This couldn't hold any more suspense, drama, and dangerous situations. It was a compelling and gripping read. I liked how Hillary held back on what wasn't working to improve the work dynamics , and instead of my way ir the highway, she found a cohesive way to work with the men she was in charge of (Sgt. Rundle)Randle. More comraderie and a better work environment, which seemed to make them all happier and more productive. Growth for Hillary! Looking forward to more.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dectective Tamsin Carver and Ezra McCann are in Elk Ridge. Hilary Casgrsin is their boss.. Ezra is married to a movie star, Harlo, they have one baby and a nanny named Poppy. Harlo and Poppy stumble on a body they were going for a stroll with the baby. They recognized him as Paparazzi named Barry Horton. Constable Riley Mills does double-duty as a forensic technician. While searching the area they find another body. Then an officer’s child goes missing. This is a very suspenseful book, very well written. A type book that is hard to put down. I highly recommend it.

I received an advance review copy, ARC, for free and I am leaving an honest opinion and voluntary review

[Janet Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Police are Too Busy with Multiple Cases
This book is part of a wonderful police series that takes place in Canada. The series should be read in order to really appreciate the characters and their personal growth over time. In this episode, our local police are more than busy when several serious cases happen within a few days of each other. With the department stretched as thin as can be, all the cases have top priority, and everyone is feeling the pressure. This story keeps the reader turning pages! This is a clean story with no foul language, minimal violence, no gore, and no bedroom scenes.

[Judyr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this whole series very much. This book is number 4. This story could stand alone but, I think it is even more enjoyable when you know the backgrounds of the characters. Inspector Hilary Casgrain leads a small town Police force as they investigate two murders found on property owned by one of their own. There are plenty of suspects. Could it possibly be their friend or his famous wife or even the nanny? The story is well written, the characters are well defined and the story moves right along.
Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Excellent Installment in the Elk Ridge Series
I just love Ms. Shillolo's books, and was again impressed with the quality of her writing in this story. These are clean police procedurals and the main character is a strong self-sufficient and capable woman. I enjoyed this trip to Elk Ridge and getting to know Ezra and Harlo a little better. I was especially interested to see how the Goat Rundle storyline evolved. This was a delightful mystery and I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone looking for a clean read. I received a free copy of this book as part of the Advance Reader team, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Margaret Hejmanowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all things Anne Shillolo, and this does not disappoint; this is part of The Elk Ridge River Mystery Series. Inspector Hilary Casgrain works for the the small Elk Ridge Police Department in British Columbia Canada. All Anne Shillolo books are amazing, she gives all the details and is very through, this gives you the whole story. Their are two gruesome murders, and a baby kidnapped. All the characters are amazing, well written, and know their stuff. This will keep you riveted from the first page; this is a fast paced story! I can't wait to see what Ms. Anne Shillolo writes next!!!

[Xiaoqing · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading this series for a while and I really enjoyed every book in it! This book showcased the author's masterful writing, vivid and fantastic character building, addictive story line and the easygoing, comforting story telling! I was lost in the world of small ski town in Canada, with the small but very dedicated and highly efficient police force, the kind and helpful locals, and I was most impressed with the continuation of the MC, the smart and tough crime fighting police chief. She is relatable and as a workaholic, she is far from perfect, but very likable.

[Liza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just say?.... [Book has 51 chapters]
1 am – Chapter 40 - I really NEED to go to bed.
Next morning – read more – middle of chapter 48 – I’ve got an appointment and so MUST stop.
(I was only a couple of minutes late)
12.30 pm - finished in less than 20 minutes.
It’s not actual ‘edge of your seat’ stress but definitely a good and engaging story. I really wanted to know the resolution.

ARC from author

[Javon50 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner! I love Anne Shillolo’s books which have never failed to keep me engaged. From the first page to the last, I was on the edge of my seat as Casgrain and her small police force deal with a missing child and the brutal deaths of two men. I read and read until I finished this fantastic book, often on the edge of my seat and finding myself holding my breath with anticipation. I loved it. This is my honest, voluntary of an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Elizabeth Ducie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilary is already short-handed as two of her officers are stuck at court dealing with a difficult appeal case. So the last thing she needs is a murder victim, followed by a second one, followed by a kidnapping. And the crimes, while having an international element, seems disturbingly close to home. Another gripping story with lots of red herrings and plot twists. And it's great to see Hilary's character develop and change, and the effect this has on her relationship to the rest of the team.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what an action packed whirlwind of a mystery. This is another amazing book in this series (all of them can be read standalone). Wonderful characters that have their strengths and weaknesses. And a storyline that just kept twisting and turning until everything comes together. A really fantastic book to read.
I received a copy of this book from the author. I am leaving a voluntary and honest review.

[Beach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that doesn't disappoint on any front. It is a fast paced, page turner, filled with all the characters I've come to appreciate and a few new ones. Inspector Hilary Casgrain and her constables in the resort town of Elk Ridge take on the new challenge of solving a double murder and a kidnapping. Things are not as they seem and the intrigue and action don't stop. This is a standalone book. However, I can't wait for future books with these characters.

[Lee Brothers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hillary has her hands full with all the nonsense that's going on around her. And she has no idea who to trust. This book was so good; there's so much I'd like to say but I will be giving away spoilers. Xavier is one dangerous person. You didn't say what the key went to and what was there. This is such a great series I love it!!

[Anne Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ezra McCann gets a phone call at work, his wife & their baby’s nanny have discovered a dead body, naked & on a deer hoist on their land. Whilst looking for clues the6 find another dead body. Then another policeman has one of his twins kidnapped. Lots going on in this book, including an appeal keeping two of her officers at the court & needing something new to be found! Another gripping read.