Forest Outings

A Coffee & Crime Mystery #3

by Nan Sampson

Ellie Gooden is just settling in for her first winter in Horizon when Patti and Earl Mough's young eco-warrior son Josh stops in town with three members of his organization, including media darling and local boy Link Fairweather. Everyone is thrilled to see him but what should be a joyful reunion quickly goes south. It’s clear that Josh’s co-workers are a nest of vipers, and worse, his parents are facing a zoning crisis championed by the Mayor and his pet real estate developer that could cost the Moughs a sizeable portion of their land. Things only get worse when Link Fairweather is found dead in the Mough’s north pasture, with Josh’s winter scarf beneath his body. Josh is immediately arrested and nearly everyone in town thinks Josh is guilty. Everyone except Ellie. It's up to Ellie to clear Josh of the charges before he’s formally indicted, or her dear friends, the Moughs, could not only lose their business but their eldest son too. With Charlie on hand to help her, Ellie sets out to find the real killer before all hope is lost - or someone else winds up dead.

245 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 29, 2017

About the author

Nan has been writing stories since she was old enough to hold a crayon. She is an avid (if not always successful) gardener, reader and fan of countless cancelled-too-soon TV shows. She lives in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with her husband, daughter and Admiral Horatio Nelson, the VERY pushy poodle.

Reviews

[Susan Wachowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Intense Ride in a Small Town

Loved the twists and turns! Finally seeing Ellie and Charlie develop their relationship was well done. I have fallen in love with Horizon WI. Hoping for more in this series!

[Daryl Ball · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series continues to be a lot of fun to read when you're in the mood for a cozy mystery. Ellie's ongoing story as she puts down roots in the small town of Horizon continues, all while another shocking murder takes place. Due especially to who is involved, she can't stop herself from trying to help. Things keep escalating though with each passing day in the case, which is definitely not the type of crime the local police are used to handling (although thankfully, former officer Charlie and local police chief Bill have some experience with such things). All of the supporting characters continue to shine as we learn more about them and grow attached to them. The only real downside of this book is that there was only a snippet added to the ongoing subplot concerning the death of Ellie's parents years earlier.

All in all another great book from this author.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read!!

Nan Sampson gives the reader just the right blend of action, emotion, & edge, plus a little twist of the paranormal. This latest addition does not disappoint. I was so thrilled sparks finally ignited between Ellie & Charlie. It's about time Ellie realized what a great guy he is. Quite a few secrets come to light, a few very unpleasant & a few very delightful. All in all this is a thoroughly enjoyable series which I sincerely hope the author will continue.

[Paulette Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This was such a great story. The plot intrigued me so I could not put it down. I am so looking forward to the next installment.

[Kerri Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been binging this series by Nan Sampson and absolutely love it!