Murder in Cascade

by Jill Brown, Karleigh Caito (Illustrator), Jenny Rarden (Editor)

199 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 12, 2026

About the author

Jill Brown grew up in a small town in central Indiana, the kind of place where the librarian knows your name, the diner knows your order, and the truth has a way of finding daylight even when somebody tries to bury it.

After 37 years working for the federal government, Jill traded official correspondence and technical manuals for the kind of writing she's loved since she was a teenager scribbling poetry in school notebooks. She's been a reader of cozy mysteries for as long as she can remember, and her favorite detectives have always been the ones who notice what everyone else misses: Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, and Elizabeth Peters' Amelia Peabody.

Now she's writing the kind of mysteries she's always loved to read. Murder in Cascade is the first novel in the Ellen Douglas Mystery series, set in a fictional Indiana town that feels a lot like home.

When she isn't writing, Jill can be found in the middle of a board game with friends, throwing stones at her local curling club, or working on a craft project that may or may not get finished.

Reviews

[Koty McDole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed Murder in Cascade! I enjoyed getting to know Ellen and following her as the mystery unfolded. The small-town setting made the story feel familiar and inviting, while the unanswered questions kept me interested and wanting to read more. I found myself wondering who could be trusted and how all the pieces would eventually come together.

This was an engaging and enjoyable cozy mystery, and I’m excited that it is the beginning of a new series.

I received a complimentary preview copy from the author, who is also my sister-in-law. This did not influence my review, and all opinions are honestly my own.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed meeting Ellen and her barista daughter Noelle. Ellen’s backstory was different and another unique former career for a cozy mystery main character. I saw in the author’s bio that she’s worked in fields like she writes about, and it definitely showed in her writing which wasn’t too technical or procedural but just right for a cozy mystery. It was a breath of fresh air to read this book which pulled me right in and didn’t let go until the final page.

I liked Ellen and Tom’s budding relationship too and can’t wait to see how that progresses along with what mystery she gets involved with next.

[MVN · Rating 5 out of 5]

A warm and cozy Indiana mystery

Do you love dogs? Friendly, but nosy townspeople? Justice prevailing? A competent sleuth? If so, Ellen Douglas might be for you!

Full of twists and turns, this book gives a faithful peak at small town life and how things change when there is an unexpected murder.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in a small town with relatable characters, this quick read mystery is fun with a relaxing vibe. Small town living, pretty waterfall, nature trails, a diner, and a coffee shop of course. A fun book to curl up and relax with. Let your brain have a bit of intrigue.

[Tim Albea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping

Great read. It kept me both intrigued and guessing. I loved the home town feel and I’m looking forward to more.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed reading this debut! It was fun knowing where things took place and being able to visualize it all so well being from the area! I’m excited for the next book.