Murder in Winnebago County: A Winnebago County Mystery

Winnebago County Mystery #1

by Christine Husom

Murder in Winnebago County follows an unlikely serial killer plaguing a rural Minnesota county. The clever murderer leaves a growing chain of apparent suicides among prominent people in the criminal justice system. As her intuition helps her draw the case together, Sergeant Corinne "Corky" Aleckson enlists assistance from her mentor and friend, Detective Elton "Smoke" Dawes. What Corky doesn't know is the killer is keeping a close watch on her. Will she be the next target?

Genres: Mystery, Suspense

327 pages, Paperback

First published September 3, 2008

About the author

Christine Husom is the Minnesota author of the medium-boiled Winnebago County Mysteries and the cozy Snow Globe Shop Mysteries. She holds an undergraduate degree from Concordia University in St. Paul, trained with the St. Paul Police Department, and served with the Wright County Sheriff's Department. Husom is a member of Sisters in Crime and Mystery Writers of America. She loves meeting readers at book clubs and other venues.

Reviews

[Michael Kelberer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good mystery set in the fictional Winnebago County (fictional, but as a Minnesota resident, I could swear I've been there a few times). A sympathetic protagonist, nice supporting cast, and the killer was strangely sympathetic and, in my reading experience, unique). Will definitely keep reading this series!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun mystery! Set in a little town nearby where I live, written by a local author (whom I had the pleasure of meeting recently), it all added to charm of the story, to be able to picture the area I was reading about. The book starts out with the sad death of a beloved judge, a horrible accident--or so everyone thinks. Spunky Sergeant Corky Aleckson is on the case. I instantly felt a connection to Corky. She is an independent and smart career woman, but she has just as interesting of a personal story too. Soon, her story and the story of the people of this town takes on a life of its own. The characters are so easy to picture in my mind, and the feelings I developed for them are just what the author intended. That's not always an easy thing to do. Soon Corky and Detective Smoke Dawes are investigating two suicides, days apart. As a reader, we get are let in on the secret of the crazy murderer and their plans for revenge. Definitely an entertaining book that left me wanting to read more about this little town and the personal life of Sergeant Corky!

[Second Wind Publishing · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slowly, meticulously, Sgt. Corky Aleckson is piecing it all together—the deaths of the judge, the public defender and the
prosecutor are all connected. What she hasn’t figured out is who else the serial killer is after and why . . . or that her
investigation has put her on the murderer's list as well.

[Pam Leffler · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the book Murder in Winnebago County, Christine Husom’s plot surrounds the small town of Oak Lea where a series of mysterious suicides are keeping the local sheriff’s department very occupied. Sergeant “Corky” Aleckson has a terrible feeling that the department is missing something extremely important, which would shed new light on the supposed suicides. Does Oak Lea have a serial killer on their hands?

Christine Husom did an amazing job at keeping me on the edge of my seat. Christine has a way of giving you just enough information to keep you anticipating more. This book is a real page turner. It progressively gets more intense the deeper into the book you get.

If you’re a fan of mystery, this book is for you. That being said, this genre is not usually what I prefer, but I’m addicted now. The mixture in Murder in Winnebago County is brilliant. Not only are you following along while Oak Lea’s finest uncover secrets that will help them solve this mystery, but you are thrust into the daily lives, friendships and romances of the characters.

Probably my favorite parts within this story are reading from the killer’s point of view. The killer is meticulous and more than just a little over the deep end. As you’re reading, you can feel the insanity that this character emits. On more than one occasion, I actually stopped reading to reflect on the realness Christine brought into her writing. It’s easy to get lost and “feel” as the characters feel. I also think the identity of the serial killer may be surprising!

As I stated earlier, this book is really worth the read. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to be immersed in a story where the characters and setting are so vivid and rich and the story line is imaginative and intriguing. Another plus is that Murder is Winnebago County is only the first of three in this series. I don’t know about you, but I’m a sucker for series books and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one!

I can’t think of enough to say about Christine’s fantastic, creative piece of fiction. The fact that she uses her past experiences to influence her writing brings this story to life. I’m pleased that I decided to take a chance and step outside of my normal preferences. I’m equally delighted that there are two more books in this series that await me and I’m already hoping for more. Keep writing Chris, I don’t think I’ll ever tire of Winnebago County.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

When three prominent Winnebago County residents kill themselves within days of each other, Sgt. Corky Aleckson, of the Oak Lea Police Department, doesn't believe it is just a coincidence and starts looking for a link. What she doesn't realize is that the deaths aren't really suicides but the work of a serial killer who has compiled a list of targets, and one of Corky's dearest friends may be the next victim.

"Murder in Winnebago County" by Christine Husom is an excellent novel, full of suspense and drama. The town of Oak Lea is an authentic picture of small town America that reminded me of my own hometown and many of the characters seemed familiar, like I had known them all my life. This is a credit to the author, who not only manages to develop the characters while keeping the story moving, but also takes the time to develop the antagonist in an effort to shed some light on the motivation as events unfold.

I particularly enjoyed the interaction between the main character, Corky Aleckson, and the other characters, such as her mom and her partner at the police department, as well as a new relationship that develops and brings a little romance into the story. The dialogue flows with ease and seems as natural as real life conversation which is, again, a credit to the talent of author Christine Husom. When such detail is taken with the little aspects of storytelling, the book as a whole becomes more believable and compelling.

If you like a good mystery with interesting characters that you will care about, then I highly recommend this book. It is the first in what I hope will be a long running series and I, for one, can't wait to read the next installment.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christine Husom worked as a corrections officer and a county sheriff, so she certainly knows what she’s writing about in her Winnebago County mystery series. Murder in Winnebago County, the first in the set, is presumably the product of experience, research and an excellent imagination. It’s also a really good read. The author combines convincing authenticity and danger with a woman’s touch. The police car conversations and procedures lend a quiet verisimilitude, never intrusive but always helping to move the tale. The relationships between narrator, Sgt Corky Aleckson, and her friends, colleagues and family, are nicely portrayed, a deft hand with very natural dialog bringing them to life. The story-line is fun, the plot structure pleasantly different with a known antagonist working behind the scenes as the tension rises, and the voice is very convincingly that of a young woman police sergeant enjoying her career.

The murder of the title could, of course, be accident or suicide. But Corky slowly learns the truth as the path grows more dangerous. Revelations are nicely timed, evidence carefully and convincingly collected, and action scenes are delightfully well-depicted—yes, female detectives can be involved in fights if they’re attacked. The worrying mother, the backstory naturally hinted at in present relationships… it all rings true to make a fascinating book filled with interesting characters, all of them ready and eager, like their readers, for a sequel. This book stands alone with confidence, and promises more to come.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alvie is angry, why; because her son Nolan is dead and the people who sent him to jail are running free. The judge, his parole officer, the DA, the public defender, the arresting officer, and his accomplice who cut a deal to go free and she has added Sgt Corrine Aleckson to her short list. What will happen? The author lets her readers in on the mystery while her characters struggle to solve the mystery. I don't think I have ever read a book where the reader knows the plot and the murderer at the beginning of the story. Alvie avenges her sons suicide by various means while trying to raise her granddaughter.

Ms. Husom has painted exciting characters in Corinne, Smoke, Sara and Corky's potential love interest, Nick. It is a page turner from start to finish as the cops finally catch on. Good one for Ms.Husom and I can't wait to read her next book.

[Georgiann Hennelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Winnebago county is a story about a serial killer who is very clever he makes it look like his victims committed suicide. Sgt Corky Aleckson doesn't believe these three prominent citizens who had everything but nothing in common with each other killed themselves with in days of each other. As she gets closer to finding the link to these murders she doesn't realize she may have just made herself the next target. Full of suspense and drama. very well written If you love a good murder mystery i highly recommend you read this book

[Norm Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend "Murder in Winnebago County" by Christine Husom to anyone who appreciates a good mystery. I particularly liked the insight that is provided into the plotting mind of the killer. Although you never quite know what will happen next. Also, Sgt. Corky Aleckson is a well-drawn and believable protagonist. I expect to read more of her adventures in the near future.
"Murder in Winnebago County" is a really good read.

[Mickey Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is sort of in the psychological/suspense category, I think.
Having grown up in the midwest, the setting in Minnesota rang very true. This book really breathes in that setting, which provides some of the clues and prompts to the storyline. The main characters were realistically drawn and even though I am not a small town person, I could identify with them. The book builds up suspense from the onset and keeps it going with psychological updates about the villain. If you like

[Dan Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Murder In Winnebago County" was my first reading by Christine Husom and I was blown away ! I read the entire 279 pages in one sitting. The storyline was exceptional, the characters very believable, and the last few pages riveting. I couldn't wait to turn the page to see what was going to happen next. I enthusiastically recommend this book and cannot wait to start "Buried In Wolf Lake".

[Dellani Oakes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read just enough of this book to know I can't wait to read more. Christine Husom weaves an intricate tale of love, hate and retribution. She gets inside the mind of the killer, showing her motivation in clear detail.

[Suzette Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Corky is a lovable, smart detective that is easily comparable to the great ones out there. (Temperance Brennen/Kathy Reich keeps coming to mind without as much technical stuff)
Outstanding characters including men to make romance writers drool.
Can't wait for the next in the series.

[Sherrie Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm about 10 chapters in and can't put it down! Now that I've finished, I have to say it was a great read - very suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat to the very end. Now to find time to read Buried in Wolf Lake!

[Jean · Rating 4 out of 5]

good first mystery

Not a very complex plot, however, I really loved the work that went in to fully developing characters in this book. The female lead is a cop and her bff is a probation officer. Book begins with the murder of a judge designed to look like suicide.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The main character is relatable and believable. The sheriff's department's codes and procedures seem totally authentic, which lends credibility to the personnel Ms. Husom has created to work there.

I love the Minnesota landmarks, and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series!

[Paige Turner · Rating 2 out of 5]

Being from MN, I always like to read thrillers/mysteries/suspense books that are based in my State. I liked this story well enough. I checked out all eight books in this series from my local library so on to book two!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one came recommended to me by the grandson of the author, who even supplied me with a copy of the book to read. I had a tough time with it at first because it switched characters telling the story and, bigger yet, point of views. I don't know if I've ever seen that in a book to date. It took me some time to wrap my head around, but I'm pretty sure I get why that choice was made as an author.

I enjoyed the local setting, and it was fun to see known spots around the county pop up in the book.

I also enjoyed the behind the scenes look at officers' lives. As a sister in law of a retired police chief and defense attorney, the law enforcement and legal perspectives were an added part of the story.

I liked the story enough that I'd want to read more to figure out what Corky is going to do about her love life and what other crimes are going to come her way in Wright, I mean, Winnebago, County.

[Leona · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author trained with the St. Paul Police Department and served with the Wright County Sheriff's Department. of Minnesota and her writing shows her experience.
Not a cozy mystery and not a who done it mystery as how she killed the victims is detailed.
Alvie Eisner is avenging the death of her son who killed himself in prison and begins with the judge; she has a list of people involved with her son, Nolan, being in prison and plans the death of each.
Written in first place by the main character, Sergeant Corky Aleckson.
My first read by this author and since this is the first of a series, I will read more.
I needed to read a book from a Minnesota author that was new to me for a fall book challenge at my local library.
The book definitely says "Minnesota" with the names of towns, the TV stations, the kind of fish, garage sales, science museum (where I was a volunteer) and cabins which are a weekend getaway for Minnesotans.
I did give it a 4 star rating.

[Carole · Rating 2 out of 5]

If I could have given this book a rating when I was 2/3's finished it would have gotten a higher rating. At that point, the author, Christine Husom, gave several clues for Sergeant Corinne (Corky)Aleckson and Detective "Smoke" Dawes but these two officials had blank memories and couldn't figure out who was behind the murders up to the last 12 pages. Well, I gave up on them. Why would the author drag out the book and make them look really stupid? I finished it but I was really aggravated. I will say this about the author's writing she did a good job but getting through her plot was really BAD!

[Chelsey Lepinski · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very solid book for a first novel. The author did a great job of developing the main characters so I feel invested in their lives. There were some things I thought shoood have happened a little faster - like the characters figuring out some of the clues. But then I remember this is a first book. I didn’t plan on reading anymore in the series but now I definitely want to know what happens to Corkie, Smoke, SarA, Nick. And even though it is a fictional novel I feel like I am super familiar with the town it takes place in.

[Alex Kempton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really more of a 3.75 star, but overall enjoyable. I didn't know a murder tale could be engaging even when we knew the whole time who the killer was. A well crafted use of dramatic Irony. The characters were well written, I thought Alvie was a perfect psychopath
Too much language for my taste. One semi steamy scene.
If you are familiar with Minnesota just west of twin cities it is a fun read.

[Lisa Horner · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, although there is really no mystery since we are introduced to the murderer in the very first chapter. The ending felt a little abrupt, but that may have been intentional since this is the first in a series. I’d read others. 3 1/2 stars.

[Emg · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not so much a mystery as a procedural. Marred by the (very) occasional Mills and Boons "struck by lightning" moments which seemed inserted not integral.

[Lordell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyable read. Good characters. A little lame for Alvie to pull this off.

[Jules · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overly simplistic but still entertaining. Enjoyed the read and looking forward to the rest of the series.

[Roseanne · Rating 1 out of 5]

The actual story line of this book was good, but the writing really needed some work. There were sections that needed more fleshing out and explanation that left me puzzled and other sections that had needless details that weren't necessary to drive the story forward.

[Christine Husom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Corky, Smoke and all the characters in Winnebago County. A fast read with tense moments.

[Patti · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was okay, not great but light reading.