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Wintergreen Mysteries #5
The Humpback Rocks Murder
Nine Hikers Climbed Humpback Rocks. Only Eight Came Down.
Retired detective Bill O'Shea is pulled into an awkward situation when his girlfriend’s ex-husband comes to Wintergreen for a family reunion. Does Bill’s girlfriend have lingering feelings for her ex? It’s hard to tell.
Mystery clouds the reunion because seven years earlier, one of the family cousins–an heiress to a fortune–disappeared on a hike in Wintergreen. With the missing cousin now legally declared dead, each surviving cousin will inherit fifty million dollars.
The reunion activities include a competitive climb to the peak of Humpback Rocks. Everyone makes it to the top, but they later realize a second cousin has disappeared.
A massive search begins, led by a park ranger who asks for Bill’s help with the investigation. Join Bill as he tries to solve two missing person cases that are tragically intertwined.
The Humpback Rocks Murder is the fifth book in the Wintergreen Mystery Series and can be read on a standalone basis.
Series fans will enjoy the return of your favorite characters including Bill O’Shea, Cindy Quintrell, Officer Krista Jackson, Officer Mitch Gentry, Rachel Dunn, the groundhog Mr. Chips, the black bear Ms. Betsy, and a black Lab named Max.
Order Patrick Kelly’s page-turning cozy mystery today!
Retired detective Bill O'Shea is pulled into an awkward situation when his girlfriend’s ex-husband comes to Wintergreen for a family reunion. Does Bill’s girlfriend have lingering feelings for her ex? It’s hard to tell.
Mystery clouds the reunion because seven years earlier, one of the family cousins–an heiress to a fortune–disappeared on a hike in Wintergreen. With the missing cousin now legally declared dead, each surviving cousin will inherit fifty million dollars.
The reunion activities include a competitive climb to the peak of Humpback Rocks. Everyone makes it to the top, but they later realize a second cousin has disappeared.
A massive search begins, led by a park ranger who asks for Bill’s help with the investigation. Join Bill as he tries to solve two missing person cases that are tragically intertwined.
The Humpback Rocks Murder is the fifth book in the Wintergreen Mystery Series and can be read on a standalone basis.
Series fans will enjoy the return of your favorite characters including Bill O’Shea, Cindy Quintrell, Officer Krista Jackson, Officer Mitch Gentry, Rachel Dunn, the groundhog Mr. Chips, the black bear Ms. Betsy, and a black Lab named Max.
Order Patrick Kelly’s page-turning cozy mystery today!
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2024
18 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
Patrick Kelly
18 books173 followersPatrick 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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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.
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
https://www.amazon.com/Patrick-Kelly/...
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM
pkellystories
VISIT MY WEBSITE! https://www.patrickkellystories.com/
VISIT MY FACEBOOK PAGE!
https://www.facebook.com/patrickkelly...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 27, 2024
I received this book free of charge to me, but even if I hadn't I can say whole heartedly that the Wintergreen Mysteries by Patrick Kelly is one of the best series I've ever read. Sometimes an author can write some good stories but then some less and even disappointing novels, but each of his books does not disappoint.
The main character is very laid back, & a highly intelligent retired detective named Bill O'Shea.
At no cautious fault he ends up involved with someone (or some ones) of his own and has homicide dropped in his lap. Law enforcement wanting, even needing his help, and casually he can never refuse them.
This involves a recent case tied to a cold case. It will remind you of an Agatha Christie who-done it in a beautiful American backdrop town, with American lives and ways of thinking that keeps you wanting to continue until you get to the end, but not too fast. The characters become real, and a nice blend of how generational age differences are never an issue with one common goal. The end surprised me this time.
Great read.
The main character is very laid back, & a highly intelligent retired detective named Bill O'Shea.
At no cautious fault he ends up involved with someone (or some ones) of his own and has homicide dropped in his lap. Law enforcement wanting, even needing his help, and casually he can never refuse them.
This involves a recent case tied to a cold case. It will remind you of an Agatha Christie who-done it in a beautiful American backdrop town, with American lives and ways of thinking that keeps you wanting to continue until you get to the end, but not too fast. The characters become real, and a nice blend of how generational age differences are never an issue with one common goal. The end surprised me this time.
Great read.
September 23, 2024
I was excited to read a pre-published copy of this book. I have read all the books in the Wintergreen Mystery series. How do you lose someone on a hike? A visit to the Humpback Rocks visitor center and looking up at the rocks made me understand that not all folks would have the skill for this difficult trail. By checking out the different entries to the trails helped me understand how a competitive hike could be set up so that folks could use different trails and starting times so each had a chance to make it to the top first. There were other twists and turns to this story which made it a real page turner. In addition, there was a bit of urgency to solving the mystery before everyone left Wintergreen and went their separate ways. This book is in a series with the return of lots of characters, but it can be read on a standalone basis. Check it out!
September 25, 2024
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:
THE HUMPBACK ROCKS MURDER, #5 - Rather an ingenious way to solve a murder. Enjoyable story in an enjoyable series. 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*
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 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*
WINTERGREEN MYSTERIES:
THE HUMPBACK ROCKS MURDER, #5 - Rather an ingenious way to solve a murder. Enjoyable story in an enjoyable series. 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*
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 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*
November 11, 2024
I've been a fan of this series from the beginning, but this latest book may be the best one yet! I may say that every time, but this series honestly just keeps getting better as it progresses, and it was pretty great to start with!
This time around, Bill finds himself getting dragged into the goings-on of his girlfriend's ex-husband's family reunion. If that sounds convoluted, it definitely is! It gets even more so when Bill learns about the disappearance of a cousin seven years ago, and another cousin goes missing during the reunion. To further complicate things, there's a massive inheritance involved.
As always, Bill utilizes his past police experience to aid in the investigation. I appreciate the methodical way he goes about things, talking to everyone, visiting relevant places, taking time to think things through and discuss with other investigators, then revisiting people from whom he needs more information. Even though Bill is a retired police professional, the book never strays from cozy mystery territory; nothing is ever too gory, and Bill is operating in an unofficial capacity (although his help IS requested by the officials.)
The mystery is wonderful and detailed. There are quite a few suspects, as millions of dollars are at stake. The fact that all of the suspects have the same motive makes things even more interesting. The fact that they also all had opportunity complicates things further. There are plenty of questions for Bill to ask, and avenues for him to follow, before he can figure out what actually happened to the missing cousins.
The character development is great as well. Readers who have followed the series all along already know the main characters pretty well, but enough is provided for those new to the stories to have a solid sense of who they are. The new characters are all so clearly drawn that they're easy to keep straight, and all feel both unique and realistic.
Bill experiences an interesting development in his personal life by the end of the book, and it is one I was very much in favor of. I'm excited to see what happens next for Bill, although I'm pretty sure I have guessed correctly.
Bonus points for appearances by old friends Rachel, Betsy, and Mr. Chips. Even more bonus points for an expanded roll for Max this time around.
Definitely 5 slices of perfect Provolone!
This time around, Bill finds himself getting dragged into the goings-on of his girlfriend's ex-husband's family reunion. If that sounds convoluted, it definitely is! It gets even more so when Bill learns about the disappearance of a cousin seven years ago, and another cousin goes missing during the reunion. To further complicate things, there's a massive inheritance involved.
As always, Bill utilizes his past police experience to aid in the investigation. I appreciate the methodical way he goes about things, talking to everyone, visiting relevant places, taking time to think things through and discuss with other investigators, then revisiting people from whom he needs more information. Even though Bill is a retired police professional, the book never strays from cozy mystery territory; nothing is ever too gory, and Bill is operating in an unofficial capacity (although his help IS requested by the officials.)
The mystery is wonderful and detailed. There are quite a few suspects, as millions of dollars are at stake. The fact that all of the suspects have the same motive makes things even more interesting. The fact that they also all had opportunity complicates things further. There are plenty of questions for Bill to ask, and avenues for him to follow, before he can figure out what actually happened to the missing cousins.
The character development is great as well. Readers who have followed the series all along already know the main characters pretty well, but enough is provided for those new to the stories to have a solid sense of who they are. The new characters are all so clearly drawn that they're easy to keep straight, and all feel both unique and realistic.
Bill experiences an interesting development in his personal life by the end of the book, and it is one I was very much in favor of. I'm excited to see what happens next for Bill, although I'm pretty sure I have guessed correctly.
Bonus points for appearances by old friends Rachel, Betsy, and Mr. Chips. Even more bonus points for an expanded roll for Max this time around.
Definitely 5 slices of perfect Provolone!
October 13, 2024
The Wintergreen Mysteries are some of the best I’ve read, and Humpback Rocks Murder did not disappoint! Retired Detective Bill O’Shea is such a likeable character – from his willingness to help everyone to the way he feeds ‘Mr. Chips’ a tomato by hand, you can’t help but route for him throughout each book. Each book does a wonderful job further developing each character, but particularly Bill’s relationship with quasi-girlfriend Cindy and the local town police.
Book 5 is a story within a story – Cindy’s ex-husband’s family is coming to Wintergreen for a reunion, Cindy is catering, and the trip is overshadowed by the disappearance of one of the cousins 7 years prior during a hike. Each of the surviving cousins, present at the reunion, will inherit a significant amount of money. Two of the cousins are twins, and they have planned some activities during the family reunion which includes a hike up to Humpback Rocks. Unfortunately, one of them disappears. Bill of course helps the local police try to solve the most recent disappearance, all the time believing this case is related to the disappearance of another cousin 7 years earlier.
This story is full of twists and turns, moments that leave you scratching your head, while always keeping you on the edge of your seat. The setting is beautifully described, the numerous diversity of players well-defined, and the story ingeniously crafted. I was kept wondering the whole time, reading the book in one setting until ultimately the culprit was revealed – and it was totally unexpected!
The Wintergreen Mysteries are ‘comfortable’ books – you easily get lost in the location, the story, and the interaction among the characters. On top of this, you have a very well written mystery that pulls you in and won’t let you go until you’ve turned the last page. I highly recommend this series and hope there are many more!
Book 5 is a story within a story – Cindy’s ex-husband’s family is coming to Wintergreen for a reunion, Cindy is catering, and the trip is overshadowed by the disappearance of one of the cousins 7 years prior during a hike. Each of the surviving cousins, present at the reunion, will inherit a significant amount of money. Two of the cousins are twins, and they have planned some activities during the family reunion which includes a hike up to Humpback Rocks. Unfortunately, one of them disappears. Bill of course helps the local police try to solve the most recent disappearance, all the time believing this case is related to the disappearance of another cousin 7 years earlier.
This story is full of twists and turns, moments that leave you scratching your head, while always keeping you on the edge of your seat. The setting is beautifully described, the numerous diversity of players well-defined, and the story ingeniously crafted. I was kept wondering the whole time, reading the book in one setting until ultimately the culprit was revealed – and it was totally unexpected!
The Wintergreen Mysteries are ‘comfortable’ books – you easily get lost in the location, the story, and the interaction among the characters. On top of this, you have a very well written mystery that pulls you in and won’t let you go until you’ve turned the last page. I highly recommend this series and hope there are many more!
August 20, 2025
4.5 Stars
After serving as a detective in Columbia, South Carolina, Bill O'Shea retired and moved to Wintergreen, Virginia. He enjoys the scenic views from his apartment balcony and as he walks his black Labrador, Max. Bill has even named some of the local wildlife he encounters, including a black bear and a groundhog. He has also assisted the local police with various investigations. Over the past year, he has been in a relationship with Cindy Quintrell, helping her with her catering business.
This weekend, Bill will put a face to a name when he meets Cindy's ex-husband, Kevin, who has asked her to cater for a family reunion in Wintergreen hosted by his Aunt Janet. During lunch with Kevin's family, his twin cousins, Sarah and Samantha, invited Bill to join them in a competition on the Appalachian Trail. The challenge involves all participants attempting to reach the peak of Humpback Rocks. The competition will have an impact on everyone involved.
The scenic view is described in vivid detail, and I especially appreciated the inclusion of wildlife interactions. Mr. Chips is quite charming, and Ms. Betsy contributed her own surprising addition to the storyline. The investigation that unfolded over the weekend was suspenseful, not only due to the unexpected twists but also because Bill was involved in the challenge that initiated the investigation, adding an intriguing edge to the plot.
I've been recommending this series ever since I was first introduced to the author's writing. This novel is the best one yet, although I must admit I've said that about each installment in the series. Each book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, so don't hesitate to travel by book to Wintergreen today or add it to your tbr list.
p.s. If you're new to the series, I also suggest following the author's social media to see photographs of the scenic area where the novel is set, as well as the local wildlife.
After serving as a detective in Columbia, South Carolina, Bill O'Shea retired and moved to Wintergreen, Virginia. He enjoys the scenic views from his apartment balcony and as he walks his black Labrador, Max. Bill has even named some of the local wildlife he encounters, including a black bear and a groundhog. He has also assisted the local police with various investigations. Over the past year, he has been in a relationship with Cindy Quintrell, helping her with her catering business.
This weekend, Bill will put a face to a name when he meets Cindy's ex-husband, Kevin, who has asked her to cater for a family reunion in Wintergreen hosted by his Aunt Janet. During lunch with Kevin's family, his twin cousins, Sarah and Samantha, invited Bill to join them in a competition on the Appalachian Trail. The challenge involves all participants attempting to reach the peak of Humpback Rocks. The competition will have an impact on everyone involved.
The scenic view is described in vivid detail, and I especially appreciated the inclusion of wildlife interactions. Mr. Chips is quite charming, and Ms. Betsy contributed her own surprising addition to the storyline. The investigation that unfolded over the weekend was suspenseful, not only due to the unexpected twists but also because Bill was involved in the challenge that initiated the investigation, adding an intriguing edge to the plot.
I've been recommending this series ever since I was first introduced to the author's writing. This novel is the best one yet, although I must admit I've said that about each installment in the series. Each book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone, so don't hesitate to travel by book to Wintergreen today or add it to your tbr list.
p.s. If you're new to the series, I also suggest following the author's social media to see photographs of the scenic area where the novel is set, as well as the local wildlife.
November 20, 2024
In this book, Bill finds himself involved in the happenings of his girlfriend’s ex-husband’s family reunion. Crazy right? Bill learns about the disappearance of a cousin that occurred over seven years ago. Suddenly another cousin goes missing during the reunion. Add into this the fact that there is a massive inheritance involved. Bill utilizes his past police experience to help with the investigation. He goes and talks to everyone asking all kinds of important questions. He also visits the relevant places, as well as takes time to think things through and discuss important items with other investigators. He then goes through his notes to go back and make a second visit to the people of importance or if he has any questions. This is a great way of sleuthing.
Even though this is the fifth book in the series it was the first one that I had read in the series. I didn’t feel lost and didn’t feel like I didn’t know enough about the characters with picking it up in book five. The mystery is well written with lots of details. I enjoyed the fact that it was a cozy mystery and didn’t include any gory details. As you read through the book there are many different suspects, and lots of twists and turns. Did I mention that there is also millions of dollars at stake as well? Being that all of the suspects have the same motive it makes things more interesting. Will Bill be able to figure out what happened to the missing cousins?
I really enjoyed reading this mystery. This mystery was set in Wintergreen, Virginia which is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With having family in Virginia, I felt like I could easily see the setting in my mind while enjoying this great mystery. Also, as a dog lover I enjoyed the fact of the labs being mentioned in the book as well. I am excited to see where the next book takes Bill in his life.
Even though this is the fifth book in the series it was the first one that I had read in the series. I didn’t feel lost and didn’t feel like I didn’t know enough about the characters with picking it up in book five. The mystery is well written with lots of details. I enjoyed the fact that it was a cozy mystery and didn’t include any gory details. As you read through the book there are many different suspects, and lots of twists and turns. Did I mention that there is also millions of dollars at stake as well? Being that all of the suspects have the same motive it makes things more interesting. Will Bill be able to figure out what happened to the missing cousins?
I really enjoyed reading this mystery. This mystery was set in Wintergreen, Virginia which is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With having family in Virginia, I felt like I could easily see the setting in my mind while enjoying this great mystery. Also, as a dog lover I enjoyed the fact of the labs being mentioned in the book as well. I am excited to see where the next book takes Bill in his life.
December 4, 2024
This was really an excellent mystery, and it was as good as the previous books in this great series! Bill is a retired police detective, ready to relax and take it easy in his new home in the Wintergreen (Virginia ski resort) area. The author describes the area beautifully, and it sounds like the perfect place for a nice, peaceful retirement....
Except there's often a murder in this small community, and since he has so much experience, the local authorities sometimes bring him in to help with cases. This time, Bill starts out investigating a missing hiker, and ends up also looking into a missing persons case from years ago that may or may not be related. It was interesting to watch Bill follow the clues and try to piece together what really happened. Using his detective skills, he's logical about it, and asks a lot of questions just like he did when he was on the job. It's no surprise the local police like to work with him!
Bill is a great character! With each book I get to know him a little better, and he seems like such a great guy. In this book, there's a new development in his personal life. There's also more about his dog Max than usual, which I really liked.
Except there's often a murder in this small community, and since he has so much experience, the local authorities sometimes bring him in to help with cases. This time, Bill starts out investigating a missing hiker, and ends up also looking into a missing persons case from years ago that may or may not be related. It was interesting to watch Bill follow the clues and try to piece together what really happened. Using his detective skills, he's logical about it, and asks a lot of questions just like he did when he was on the job. It's no surprise the local police like to work with him!
Bill is a great character! With each book I get to know him a little better, and he seems like such a great guy. In this book, there's a new development in his personal life. There's also more about his dog Max than usual, which I really liked.
September 29, 2024
In The Humpback Rocks Murder, Patrick Kelly delivers a delightful cozy mystery that centers around retired detective Bill O'Shea, who finds himself pulled back into the world of sleuthing when a murder disrupts the tranquility of his small mountain town.
The plot unfolds with a perfect mix of intrigue and lighthearted moments, as O'Shea navigates a cast of quirky out of town visitors and familiar faces to the series and unravels a web of secrets that keeps readers guessing. Kelly’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and clever dialogue, making the reader feel right at home in this cozy setting.
Overall, The Humpback Rocks Murder is an engaging read that combines suspense with a well-crafted mystery. Fans of the genre will appreciate its warmth and intrigue, while newcomers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a thrilling escape into the mountains!
The plot unfolds with a perfect mix of intrigue and lighthearted moments, as O'Shea navigates a cast of quirky out of town visitors and familiar faces to the series and unravels a web of secrets that keeps readers guessing. Kelly’s writing shines with vivid descriptions and clever dialogue, making the reader feel right at home in this cozy setting.
Overall, The Humpback Rocks Murder is an engaging read that combines suspense with a well-crafted mystery. Fans of the genre will appreciate its warmth and intrigue, while newcomers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a thrilling escape into the mountains!
October 8, 2024
Patrick Kelly returns us to the beautiful mountain town of Wintergreen. Not looking forward to what could be an awkward encounter, Bill O'Shea feels uneasy when his girlfriend's ex husband and family are coming to the area for a reunion. When one of the cousins disappears during a hike, Bill is pulled into the investigation. How similar is her disappearance to her cousins-a heiress-seven years ago? Will he be able to find her or will she be gone like the mist and her cousin? Little did they know things aren't always as they seem. Bill O'Shea is racing against time to save her while watching his future possibly disintegrate. I love how Mr. Kelly wraps his readers in his cozy mysteries. His descriptions of the mountains and his characters make the reader want to curl up and relax. I would one day love to see his mountains near Wintergreen. Oh and a glimpse of my favorite character....
I received an ARC copy. A review was not required.
I received an ARC copy. A review was not required.
October 25, 2024
This is an excellent story that gripped me from beginning to end, and I couldn't stop reading it! Retired detective Bill O'Shea gets invited as a guest at a family reunion that includes his girlfriend Cindy's ex-husband. Cindy is catering the reunion, and Bill reluctantly agrees to attend. Seven years ago, one the family members disappeared and is presumed dead after all these years. The family decided to hold the reunion in Wintergreen, since this is where the last reunion was held and was the last time they saw that family member alive. They hold events where they even rope in Bill to participate, when another family member disappears. A huge search goes on and Bill is asked to help out with the investigation. This book has a lot of intrigue and mystery with an interesting cast of characters who each have their own reasons for doing what they do and acting how they act. I absolutely loved this book, I can't wait for the next one in the series, and I highly recommend it!
October 30, 2024
Bill O'Shea is back in one of the most complicated cases yet. The search for a missing hiker turns into solving a cold case. What starts as a family reunion that Bill is invited to because of his girlfriend quickly turns to a missing person case with a underlying mystery. Sarah and Samantha 's cousin disappeared 7 years ago and they will do anything to find out what happened to her. With incredible planning, including meeting Bill and inviting him to key events they unleash a plan that was years in the making. Bill puts together all the clues and solves both mysteries. I love Bill, he is exactly how I would picture a retired detective. The vistas in Wintergreen comes alive with Mr. Kelly's words. My two favorite characters aren't human but add a great touch. Max is the smartest and most protective of dogs and not just for Bill. And Mr. Chips just adds a bit a fun. While not all the outcomes were what Bill might have hoped for, he keeps Wintergreen safe.
November 13, 2024
SPOILER ALERT! I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book. Normally I don't like to start in the middle of a series, but this book was an exception and was a good stand alone mystery and was a quick read and I am looking forward to reading the other books in this series. I enjoyed how Bill O'Shea, as a retired homicide detective interacted with the other characters during the search for Samantha and subsequently the finding of Carrie's remains, the cousin who disappeared 7 years before. I came to the conclusion pretty quickly that Carrie was most likely not in Southeast Asia, but in fact had been killed. I was surprised at who the actual killers turned out to be however. I felt a little sorry for Bill when it came to his relationship with his girlfriend Cindy and how much more invested he seemed to be in the relationship than she was and how conflicted he was when he thought she might have been involved in the murder of her former husband's cousin. The book itself was an interesting take on how money or the lack of money affects how people react to each other.
November 17, 2024
This is a new to me author and I am sure that I will be reading more from him and this series. Bill really doesn't want to go to any of the events at his girlfriend's ex-husband's family reunion. Cindy is still friendly with his family and Bill is invited to go along. One of the cousins had gone missing seven years before. Everyone thinks she took off but hasn't heard a word in years. So, they have had her declared dead. There is a sizeable sum of money that will go to the other cousins upon their aunt's death, so it would be a good motive for murder. As they are hiking where the cousin disappeared, another cousin goes missing. As they search for her, Bill starts looking into recent and past events. A body is found, buried, is it the cousin from seven years ago? Where is the cousin who just went missing? Can Bill find the murderer before they all leave town?
November 19, 2024
I really enjoy this series! This is the fifth Wintergreen mystery, but thanks to the small cast of recurring characters you don't need to read the previous ones to follow this one.
The main character, a retired cop named Bill, is a refreshing change from a lot of cozy mystery protagonists. He's down to earth and logical, with a subtle sense of humor. He's gotten a dog named Max in the last couple of mysteries, who I love.
This book has him in the middle of a couple of missing person cases, one years old and the other very recent. It's a solid mystery that kept my attention, without becoming too twisty to follow.
The setting of the resort town of Wintergreen on the Appalachian Trail is like a character itself, and I enjoy the descriptions of it and the attention to the details of the seasons that the author sprinkles into each story. I recommend both this book and the entire series!
The main character, a retired cop named Bill, is a refreshing change from a lot of cozy mystery protagonists. He's down to earth and logical, with a subtle sense of humor. He's gotten a dog named Max in the last couple of mysteries, who I love.
This book has him in the middle of a couple of missing person cases, one years old and the other very recent. It's a solid mystery that kept my attention, without becoming too twisty to follow.
The setting of the resort town of Wintergreen on the Appalachian Trail is like a character itself, and I enjoy the descriptions of it and the attention to the details of the seasons that the author sprinkles into each story. I recommend both this book and the entire series!
October 4, 2024
As an advance review reader and fan of Pat Kelly's hero, Bill O'Shea, I was eager to read the next installment in the mystery series set at Wintergreen Resort in Virginia's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. This is another terrific story. There's a new cast of well-crafted characters visiting Wintergreen for a family reunion, along with the return of Bill O'Shea and many others - including Max (a dog), Ms. Betsy (a bear) and Mr. Chips (a groundhog) from Kelly's previous books. As with all good whodunits, there's a surprising plot twist, and I confess I picked the wrong suspect as the guilty party. If you love clean mysteries with likeable, believable characters, you will enjoy this book. And if you ever have the chance, hike up to Humpback Rocks.
November 20, 2024
This was the 1st book I have read by this author. Even though this is the 5th in a series, I didn't feel like I was missing anything or coming in the middle of a story. Bill O'Shea is a retired detective and is caught up in an interesting missing person mystery. While he is visiting the family of his girlfriend's ex, the family sets out on a hiking competition. Unfortunately, 1 of them doesn't come back with the others. As they search, they revisit a mystery from years prior--one of the cousins never made it back from a hike in the same area. The 2 stories are intertwined with the same suspects and same location. Bill is helping with the investigation and hoping to uncover the truth. I really enjoyed the characters and the story with all of the different twists and turns.
November 23, 2024
This is the fifth book in this series; I’ve also read and enjoyed the third and fourth books, and this addition to the series definitely doesn’t disappoint. I really love the main character, Bill, a retired police detective living in Wintergreen, a small touristy mountain town. He sometimes helps the local police with major cases, and this one is a doozy. Bill’s girlfriend, Cindy, is going to attend her ex’s family reunion in Wintergreen and also cater. One of the cousins had disappeared from a gathering there 7 years previously and was recently declared deceased. And now someone else goes missing! The mystery is very intriguing and well-written. I highly recommend this book and series. I was provided an ARC, but these opinions are my own.
September 27, 2024
I was excited to learn I was selected to pre-read and review this book. After reading the first four books in the series, I wrote to the author to see if there was a fifth book in process and was happy to learn there was one coming out soon . I was then asked to read a pre-published copy and was happy to accept! I was delighted to start the book immediately and consequently could not put it down. Kelly does an excellent job setting up the characters of the story and then having you think any one of them could be possibly be the murderer.
I hope he will continue with the series. There were a few hints he might!
I hope he will continue with the series. There were a few hints he might!
September 25, 2024
Retired detective Bill O'Shea is pulled into an awkward situation when his girlfriend’s ex-husband comes to Wintergreen for a family reunion. Does Bill’s girlfriend have lingering feelings for her ex?Mystery clouds the reunion because seven years earlier, one of the family cousins, an heiress to a fortune, disappeared on a hike in Wintergreen. With the missing cousin now legally declared dead, each surviving cousin will inherit fifty million dollars.Was she killed or simply missing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The in no way affects my opinion of this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The in no way affects my opinion of this book.
October 4, 2024
Fantastic mystery with suspense right to the very end. I have read all the books in the Wintergreen series as well as the Joe Robbins series. Mr. Kelly continues to dazzle with the character development, painting a great environment along with great suspense. I love being immersed into the beauty of the mountains, the nature and the wildlife of the setting. Bill O'Shea seems to blend right into the majestic surroundings with a calm demeaner despite the challenges of solving crimes in his retirement. Keep the series going!
October 9, 2024
I’ve enjoyed all of the books in Pat Kelly’s Wintergreen Mystery Series. The most recent release, The Humpback Rocks Murder, in my opinion, is the best in the series. The innovative and fast-moving plot grabs the reader’s attention. I couldn’t put the book down and read it in one day.
The book is a crafty who-done-it. Retired detective Bill O’Shea manages to pull all the facts together and pinpoint the killer in a large group of money-hungry suspects. As usual, I incorrectly guessed the killer.
I recommend this book and give it a five-star review!
The book is a crafty who-done-it. Retired detective Bill O’Shea manages to pull all the facts together and pinpoint the killer in a large group of money-hungry suspects. As usual, I incorrectly guessed the killer.
I recommend this book and give it a five-star review!
October 28, 2024
A fortune to be inherited, a missing and presumed dead cousin, another missing cousin and an attempted murder of a wealthy woman. If one of the cousins dies their portion of the inheritance will be split among the others. What happened to the first missing cousin? Where is the second missing cousin? Sometimes money can turn family into enemies. Is that what's happening? Or is it something else? This book has it all! An amazing cast of characters described in detail and a story that will have you turning the pages!
November 23, 2024
The Humpback Rocks Murder: A Blue Ridge Mountains Mystery is book #5 in the Wintergreen Mystery series by Patrick Kelly.
This was the first book I’ve read in this series, but I was able to read it fine as a standalone. The characters were well-developed. The mystery of the missing people was interesting and I enjoyed trying to solve it. It kept me guessing. I definitely plan to buy the earlier books to catch up on the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was the first book I’ve read in this series, but I was able to read it fine as a standalone. The characters were well-developed. The mystery of the missing people was interesting and I enjoyed trying to solve it. It kept me guessing. I definitely plan to buy the earlier books to catch up on the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
September 22, 2024
A very interesting book. A family reunion taking place at Wintergreen. Identical twins tell Bill O’Shea, a retired detective, about the one 7 years before. Then, there cousin Carrie had disappeared, gone off to Asia to avoid getting married! She’d sent a few emails & then silence. Recently she had been declared dead. That meant the 4 cousins would each inherit $50,000 when their aunt died. Then, once again, someone goes missing!
September 27, 2024
Like all of Patrick's books, I really enjoyed this one. Anyone with a knowledge of Central Virginia will have a lot of familiarity with the setting as Patrick skillfully brings these areas to life. This is fun read and there is a lot of detail to track, but the characters are believable and very human. As a part-time Wintergreen resident, I enjoy reading about the area, but anyone with an imagination will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.
October 5, 2024
This is a great mystery, linking the past with the present day activities. It’s an intriguing & suspenseful read with an interesting group of characters. The family reunion, a repeat of 7 years ago, brings some surprises. After a while you realise all is not as it seems. Ex-detective Bill O’Shea is asked to help with the investigation, & he sees things others do not! Totally riveting & fascinating!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. I am writing a voluntary, honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. I am writing a voluntary, honest review.
October 17, 2024
A great mystery tale which will have you trying to find out what is going to happen next. Questions will arise when her ex reappears after 7 years. A journey up the mountains will end in another missing cousin and life is going to become even more complicated. See just what is going to happen to them all. A great murder mystery which will keep you guessing until the end
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it kept me hooked until the end
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it kept me hooked until the end
September 25, 2024
Once again Patrick Kelly delivers a credible mystery that brings the reader into the story to help solve the crime. This time it is along a popular destination hiking trail, and it invokes a cast of suspects each with his or her own baggage. It was a fun read with twists and turns that leave the reader hoping to arrive at the same conclusion regarding “who dunnit.” Recommend this book!
October 13, 2024
This certainly is a page turner. Bill is asked by the park ranger to help look for a person that has gone missing on the Appalachian Trail. He ends up knee deep in a 7 year old mystery. The mail suspects are cousins who are set to inherit $50 Million each. Add spouses and other factors and good luck nailing the perp.
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