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The Aspen Notch Mysteries #1
Murder in Aspen Notch
Sue and Alan fell in love while solving a murder mystery in No Gifts to Bring. Now newlyweds, they’d decided to relocate to Aspen Notch, a small town in the Poconos, where they could enjoy the mountain vistas and a restful retirement.
Out of the blue, Alan was offered an interim position as chief of police, Aspen Notch’s only cop. Thinking it would be an easy gig in a quiet town, Sue encouraged Alan to accept the job while she focused on the renovations to the home they bought.
They were barely settled before Sue found a dead body, inherited an unruly puppy, and was sent a death threat. Would Sue be able to help Alan solve the crime before the killer made good on the warning?
Murder in Aspen Notch, an engaging whodunit, is the first book of the Aspen Notch Mystery series.
Out of the blue, Alan was offered an interim position as chief of police, Aspen Notch’s only cop. Thinking it would be an easy gig in a quiet town, Sue encouraged Alan to accept the job while she focused on the renovations to the home they bought.
They were barely settled before Sue found a dead body, inherited an unruly puppy, and was sent a death threat. Would Sue be able to help Alan solve the crime before the killer made good on the warning?
Murder in Aspen Notch, an engaging whodunit, is the first book of the Aspen Notch Mystery series.
256 pages, ebook
Published September 13, 2019
555 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen McKee
30 books71 followersKathleen McKee is a retired educator and registered dietitian who enjoys crafting stories that are uplifting and moving. Regardless of genre, she likes to include a touch of romance and mystery, with narratives that bring the characters to life.
Kathleen’s heart-warming stories and their settings are often inspired by experiences of people she has met or places she has lived. She likes to include women who are strong, generous, compassionate, and capable.
Kathleen currently lives in southeast Pennsylvania with her springer spaniel, Maggie. You’ll find her there, working on her next book. Visit her website at: https://kathleen-mckee.com/ and sign up for her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/crzIUv
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmckee101.Au...
Kathleen’s heart-warming stories and their settings are often inspired by experiences of people she has met or places she has lived. She likes to include women who are strong, generous, compassionate, and capable.
Kathleen currently lives in southeast Pennsylvania with her springer spaniel, Maggie. You’ll find her there, working on her next book. Visit her website at: https://kathleen-mckee.com/ and sign up for her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/crzIUv
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kmckee101.Au...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 20, 2021
A book about a retired couple looking to settle down for the duration of their twilight years was always going to be a bit faded, or bland. But in the end, the book won me over.
There are exciting things that do happen in the story. There is a murder, as mentioned in the title, and an explosion. That's it. It was enough. I thought this particular discovery - a new to me author - deserved 4 stars.
There are weaknesses in the plot armor. One of them is why did the culprit consider the MC a threat? The answers supplied doesn't pass muster. However, the way the book avoided a direct confrontation between the MC and the murderer made for a great resolution.
There are exciting things that do happen in the story. There is a murder, as mentioned in the title, and an explosion. That's it. It was enough. I thought this particular discovery - a new to me author - deserved 4 stars.
There are weaknesses in the plot armor. One of them is why did the culprit consider the MC a threat? The answers supplied doesn't pass muster. However, the way the book avoided a direct confrontation between the MC and the murderer made for a great resolution.
February 14, 2021
Fun story of when retirement doesn't go quite the way you expect. If you appreciate older characters who are not magical, then this is a great one. :)
October 25, 2019
Another winner!
Kathy McKee has written another captivating story of everyday people who find themselves in non-everyday situations. The characters are believable and like real people they are not always as they appear. Read this if you want to spend a few enjoyable hours away from your everyday life!
Kathy McKee has written another captivating story of everyday people who find themselves in non-everyday situations. The characters are believable and like real people they are not always as they appear. Read this if you want to spend a few enjoyable hours away from your everyday life!
July 31, 2020
Just a enjoyable read
January 14, 2021
I am on the second of this series and am enjoying it. The characters are believable and I love the small town atmosphere.
January 6, 2026
Alan and Susan Jaworski are house hunting in Aspen Notch, Pennsylvania. With Alan's house in New York already sold and Susan preparing to sell her home in Chester County in the southeast of the state, the couple eagerly anticipates starting their retirement together in one of the scenic towns in the Pocono Mountains. Little do they know, Alan will soon receive an unexpected job offer—and a Labrador puppy will quickly follow in their future, too.
Scouting for a new home is just the start of the challenges and joys of blending two lives—a widow and a widower beginning a new marriage filled with hopes, memories, and a wealth of emotions. The author brings Aspen Notch to life with vivid details and authentic small-town warmth. I was enchanted by the cozy atmosphere, drawn to the close-knit community, the inviting comfort of local hangouts like Dottie's Café, and the gentle rhythms of daily life. Yet beneath the surface, there is a subtle undercurrent of suspense—just enough to make you wonder whether everyone Alan and Susan meet is as open-hearted and trustworthy as they appear. This blend of coziness and intrigue made for a truly engaging read, keeping me invested in the characters and eager to see how the relationships would unfold.
Reviewer's Notes:
I highly recommend the mystery, but given the crime scene, I do not agree with marketing it as a cozy mystery.
The prequel, "No Gifts to Bring," is equally captivating. From the very first sentence, the vivid depiction of winter driving on a North-South interstate in Pennsylvania drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat. The story beautifully weaves together the magic of Christmas, an intriguing mystery, and the heartfelt tale of how Susan Belcroft and Alan Jaworski first met and how their lives became intertwined at the Alpine Holiday Lodge before Christmas.
Scouting for a new home is just the start of the challenges and joys of blending two lives—a widow and a widower beginning a new marriage filled with hopes, memories, and a wealth of emotions. The author brings Aspen Notch to life with vivid details and authentic small-town warmth. I was enchanted by the cozy atmosphere, drawn to the close-knit community, the inviting comfort of local hangouts like Dottie's Café, and the gentle rhythms of daily life. Yet beneath the surface, there is a subtle undercurrent of suspense—just enough to make you wonder whether everyone Alan and Susan meet is as open-hearted and trustworthy as they appear. This blend of coziness and intrigue made for a truly engaging read, keeping me invested in the characters and eager to see how the relationships would unfold.
Reviewer's Notes:
I highly recommend the mystery, but given the crime scene, I do not agree with marketing it as a cozy mystery.
The prequel, "No Gifts to Bring," is equally captivating. From the very first sentence, the vivid depiction of winter driving on a North-South interstate in Pennsylvania drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat. The story beautifully weaves together the magic of Christmas, an intriguing mystery, and the heartfelt tale of how Susan Belcroft and Alan Jaworski first met and how their lives became intertwined at the Alpine Holiday Lodge before Christmas.
December 31, 2025
Captivating
I very much enjoyed this adventure. Love when I find a new-to-me author who creates interesting and intriguing characters! This one had several twists and turns that “forced” me to keep reading. I am eager ing headed to turn pages in the Garden!
I very much enjoyed this adventure. Love when I find a new-to-me author who creates interesting and intriguing characters! This one had several twists and turns that “forced” me to keep reading. I am eager ing headed to turn pages in the Garden!
January 2, 2023
An enjoyable v easy read.
I enjoyed this fun read. It was just slightly predictable but still a fun read. I enjoyed the main character, and will continue in the series!
I enjoyed this fun read. It was just slightly predictable but still a fun read. I enjoyed the main character, and will continue in the series!
December 6, 2020
This is the first book by this author that I have read. I enjoyed it very much. The writing was good with enjoyable and likable characters. Will read more of her books and would recommend her books.
April 13, 2022
Pleasant read, likable characters
It’s fun to read a story about characters and situations similar to yourself, and that was the case with this book. Retired and recently married and remodeling a home, I could identify. When I found this book, my kitchen had just been completely removed. No stove or refrigerator or sink, etc. The difficulty in finding new friends in a new place is real to me too. The mystery was believable as were the characters. Altogether a fun book. I will read the others.
It’s fun to read a story about characters and situations similar to yourself, and that was the case with this book. Retired and recently married and remodeling a home, I could identify. When I found this book, my kitchen had just been completely removed. No stove or refrigerator or sink, etc. The difficulty in finding new friends in a new place is real to me too. The mystery was believable as were the characters. Altogether a fun book. I will read the others.
November 17, 2022
Somehow Alan and Sue retiring to a lovely home in the Pocono Mountains and renovating the new home turns into finding a dead body, gaining a new puppy and somehow becoming the target of someone who keeps trying to kill Sue. While they meet some of the lovely people who live in Aspen Notch Alan as interim deputy is working hard to solve the murder and protect his wife. After multiple plot twists and red herrings, they find the killers and they can finally settle down and enjoy their new home.
June 17, 2025
Enjoyable cozy mystery
I very much enjoyed this cozy mystery and didn't guess the murderer. Alan and Sue buy an old house, and he becomes interim police chief. Sue and her new friend Evelyn stop to get hoagies and find the owner murdered. Sue ends up with a lovable 8 month old Lab that the widow of the murder victim didn't want. I hope to read more in the series.
I very much enjoyed this cozy mystery and didn't guess the murderer. Alan and Sue buy an old house, and he becomes interim police chief. Sue and her new friend Evelyn stop to get hoagies and find the owner murdered. Sue ends up with a lovable 8 month old Lab that the widow of the murder victim didn't want. I hope to read more in the series.
August 3, 2025
Aspen Notch 1
This was a new author and mystery series to me. I was not disappointed with the storyline or the authors ability to build upon this great new mystery series. I would highly recommend this book to any kindle unlimited member looking for a new series to follow. I know I'm already waiting for book 2 to come out!!!
This was a new author and mystery series to me. I was not disappointed with the storyline or the authors ability to build upon this great new mystery series. I would highly recommend this book to any kindle unlimited member looking for a new series to follow. I know I'm already waiting for book 2 to come out!!!
September 20, 2024
love this series
This is a great series for mystery lovers. I plan on reading more. The characters are very believable and make you want to read more. Good plot, kept me guessing.
This is a great series for mystery lovers. I plan on reading more. The characters are very believable and make you want to read more. Good plot, kept me guessing.
September 29, 2025
This has become my new favorite mystery series. Looking forward to reading and enjoying new experiences with Alan and Sue as they make new friends, start a new business, solve new puzzles and settle into their newly renovated home in Aspen Notch
November 9, 2025
Murder in Aspen Notch
Awesome mystery. This has an intriguing plot twist and turns that keeps you turning the page. The characters are friendly, interesting and supportive. I think I've found a new favorite author and mystery to enjoy.
Awesome mystery. This has an intriguing plot twist and turns that keeps you turning the page. The characters are friendly, interesting and supportive. I think I've found a new favorite author and mystery to enjoy.
April 25, 2021
An entertaining mystery
Beautiful descriptions of a quaint town and a glimpse of a different time in life. A mystery that must be discovered. A delightful book
Beautiful descriptions of a quaint town and a glimpse of a different time in life. A mystery that must be discovered. A delightful book
May 19, 2021
Loved this cozy
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and well drawn characters. It was pleasant read and I ordered the four volumes can't wait to read the next one
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and well drawn characters. It was pleasant read and I ordered the four volumes can't wait to read the next one
September 2, 2021
So happy I decided to read this series. This is the first time for me reading this author. I'm having a hard time putting it down. Good characters and story line.
November 20, 2021
Great mystery !
Great mystery, lovable characters and clean ! I've enjoyed Kathleen McKee 's other books as well . I hope to read more in this series .
Great mystery, lovable characters and clean ! I've enjoyed Kathleen McKee 's other books as well . I hope to read more in this series .
May 14, 2025
Enjoyable read!
I love a good cozy mystery series, and I am happy to have found this one. On to book #2!
I love a good cozy mystery series, and I am happy to have found this one. On to book #2!
June 21, 2025
Sweet story
Good reading. Story is interesting and is a good, well developed mystery. Planning to read the next novel in the series. Highly recommend as a cozy mystery.
Good reading. Story is interesting and is a good, well developed mystery. Planning to read the next novel in the series. Highly recommend as a cozy mystery.
August 20, 2025
great read
I really enjoyed the book and couldn’t solve the murder until the end. I look forward to other books by the author.
I really enjoyed the book and couldn’t solve the murder until the end. I look forward to other books by the author.
September 13, 2025
Exceeded my expectations
This was a fun read for me, a new author I will follow. I enjoyed the characters and situations and could actually relate to some of them.
This was a fun read for me, a new author I will follow. I enjoyed the characters and situations and could actually relate to some of them.
September 14, 2025
Great Read!
Really enjoyed this read. Engaging characters with a story line that kept you wondering what next. Looking forward to the next book.
Really enjoyed this read. Engaging characters with a story line that kept you wondering what next. Looking forward to the next book.
December 19, 2025
loved it!
Will be excited to read this author’s books in the future! Thanks for helping to make my day! She is a winner!
Will be excited to read this author’s books in the future! Thanks for helping to make my day! She is a winner!
December 29, 2025
Review
Loved this book!! I hope that there are more of this author in Kindle!! I do like to find a good author and series!! Love series books!!
Loved this book!! I hope that there are more of this author in Kindle!! I do like to find a good author and series!! Love series books!!
December 31, 2025
Fast read
This book kept my interest and moved quickly with a nice twist. I'm looking forward to starting #2 on the series.
This book kept my interest and moved quickly with a nice twist. I'm looking forward to starting #2 on the series.
January 2, 2026
Fun read
I enjoyed reading this book with all the interesting characters. It seems like I was in the quaint town with everyone. Very pleasant read.
I enjoyed reading this book with all the interesting characters. It seems like I was in the quaint town with everyone. Very pleasant read.
January 11, 2026
what a great read.
I enjoyed this book from start to finish. I was interested all the way through till the end. Can’t wait for the next book.
I enjoyed this book from start to finish. I was interested all the way through till the end. Can’t wait for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews