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Mattie Winston Mystery #12
Dead Even
In Sorenson, Wisconsin, a local bigshot is found with a pool cue through the heart—and Mattie Winston must untangle a web of lies to sink a killer . . .
In her previous career as a nurse, Mattie Winston’s job was to keep death at bay. Now, as a medicolegal investigator, she’s required to study death intimately—to figure out causes and timing, and help deduce whether it was natural or suspicious.
In the case of Montgomery “Monty” Dixon, a well-to-do Realtor, there can be little doubt: Broken pool cues do not embed themselves. Monty’s body is found in the game room of his lavish house, the walls adorned with photos of Monty and various celebrities. But as Mattie and husband Steve Hurley, a homicide detective, both know, money and connections can’t protect anyone from a killer.
The first suspect is Monty’s wife, Summer, who claims to have been at a cooking class at the time. When that alibi is served up as a fake, Summer moves to the top of the suspects list, but is soon joined by Monty’s ne’er-do-well son, Sawyer, who has racked up gambling debts he hoped his dad would pay off. Monty’s twin brother is engaging in shady financial deals. An affair, a Ponzi scheme, a disputed inheritance . . . there are as many motives as suspects, and soon Mattie and Hurley have turned up other, possibly related deaths.
Balancing a high-profile case with the demands of their increasingly stressful household isn’t easy. It’ll take all of Mattie’s skill—along with a lucky break or two—to stop a killer from racking up another victim.
In her previous career as a nurse, Mattie Winston’s job was to keep death at bay. Now, as a medicolegal investigator, she’s required to study death intimately—to figure out causes and timing, and help deduce whether it was natural or suspicious.
In the case of Montgomery “Monty” Dixon, a well-to-do Realtor, there can be little doubt: Broken pool cues do not embed themselves. Monty’s body is found in the game room of his lavish house, the walls adorned with photos of Monty and various celebrities. But as Mattie and husband Steve Hurley, a homicide detective, both know, money and connections can’t protect anyone from a killer.
The first suspect is Monty’s wife, Summer, who claims to have been at a cooking class at the time. When that alibi is served up as a fake, Summer moves to the top of the suspects list, but is soon joined by Monty’s ne’er-do-well son, Sawyer, who has racked up gambling debts he hoped his dad would pay off. Monty’s twin brother is engaging in shady financial deals. An affair, a Ponzi scheme, a disputed inheritance . . . there are as many motives as suspects, and soon Mattie and Hurley have turned up other, possibly related deaths.
Balancing a high-profile case with the demands of their increasingly stressful household isn’t easy. It’ll take all of Mattie’s skill—along with a lucky break or two—to stop a killer from racking up another victim.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published March 30, 2021
70 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
Annelise Ryan
19 books1,137 followersAnnelise Ryan is a pseudonym for Beth Amos, the USA Today bestselling author of 30 novels, including the Monster Hunter Mysteries featuring cryptozoologist and bookstore owner, Morgan Carter, the Mattie Winston mystery series, featuring a wryly cynical nurse-turned-coroner, and the Helping Hands Mysteries featuring social worker Hildy Schneider.
In addition, she is the author of the Mack's Bar Mystery series written as Allyson K. Abbott and five standalone paranormal thrillers written as Beth Amos.
She is a retired emergency room nurse living in Wisconsin. There are several reasons why she decided to use pseudonyms, not the least of which was that her ER patients might not have been comfortable knowing she spent her spare time thinking up clever ways to kill people.
In addition, she is the author of the Mack's Bar Mystery series written as Allyson K. Abbott and five standalone paranormal thrillers written as Beth Amos.
She is a retired emergency room nurse living in Wisconsin. There are several reasons why she decided to use pseudonyms, not the least of which was that her ER patients might not have been comfortable knowing she spent her spare time thinking up clever ways to kill people.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
December 17, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Death by Pool Cue! You don’t see that every day. But that is the case medicolegal investigator, Mattie Winston and her husband Detective Steve Hurley are tasked with. Prominent Realtor, Montgomery “Monty” Dixon has been taken down by someone he had to have known. Was it his wife, Summer? His son, Sawyer? His twin brother? A disgruntled employee? A client not happy with their real estate deal? Or was someone else trying to get Dead Even? Hurley and Mattie are hot on the case as they juggle their hectic home life. Will Mattie catch the killer? Or will she be the next victim?
I love this series and these characters.
The author has created such fantastic genuine characters. Mattie has grown leaps and bounds over these 12 books. She is still the same clutzy self she has been since Book 1 and I love that. She has always made me laugh out loud and is truly my favorite fictional character of all time. Hurley is her perfect man. They have worked through so much over the years and always come out stronger. Their son Matthew is such a cool kid. He immediately stole my heart. His big sister Emily has been through some tough things but has emerged as such a strong young woman. Dom and Iggy are the best supporting characters. They always have Mattie’s back. Her sister, Desi, and her husband Lucien keep things interesting, especially with the girl’s Dad back in town and Lucien representing the suspects in Mattie’s cases.
Again, Ms. Ryan has wrapped her characters in a complicated mystery with a lot of moving parts. Mattie knows all the suspects are lying and she just keeps tugging one thread after another while Hurley works the case on his end. I love the trust they have in each other. They come up with theories and dig some more. They have no problem bringing suspects into “The Hole” to try to get to the truth. It is so much fun to follow all the breadcrumbs with them right up to the big reveal. I truly was at the edge of my seat. I was so impressed with Mattie. I was cheering and crying. Knowing this is probably the last book in the series, I was afraid about how the book was going to end.
The author uses the final chapter to put a lid on the mystery answering all the questions and presenting the motives and how they snowballed. She also leaves the characters in a very good place. The one thing she doesn’t do is slam the door completely shut on future stories. I hope someday down the road Mattie jumps into Annelise’s brain and pokes at her a lot to pick up the saga of Mattie and Hurley again. As I said, I love these characters, they are like old friends that I could make a short trip up the highway and visit again and again.
Thank you, Ms. Ryan. I found this series late in the game but once I started I was hooked. I really enjoy the humor you infuse into each story while giving us a fabulous mystery to escape into. I have now read everything you have written as Annelise Ryan and Allyson K. Abbott and am anxiously awaiting the release of Death in the Dark Woods, the second Monster Hunter Mystery. As long as you keep writing I will keep reading!
Death by Pool Cue! You don’t see that every day. But that is the case medicolegal investigator, Mattie Winston and her husband Detective Steve Hurley are tasked with. Prominent Realtor, Montgomery “Monty” Dixon has been taken down by someone he had to have known. Was it his wife, Summer? His son, Sawyer? His twin brother? A disgruntled employee? A client not happy with their real estate deal? Or was someone else trying to get Dead Even? Hurley and Mattie are hot on the case as they juggle their hectic home life. Will Mattie catch the killer? Or will she be the next victim?
I love this series and these characters.
The author has created such fantastic genuine characters. Mattie has grown leaps and bounds over these 12 books. She is still the same clutzy self she has been since Book 1 and I love that. She has always made me laugh out loud and is truly my favorite fictional character of all time. Hurley is her perfect man. They have worked through so much over the years and always come out stronger. Their son Matthew is such a cool kid. He immediately stole my heart. His big sister Emily has been through some tough things but has emerged as such a strong young woman. Dom and Iggy are the best supporting characters. They always have Mattie’s back. Her sister, Desi, and her husband Lucien keep things interesting, especially with the girl’s Dad back in town and Lucien representing the suspects in Mattie’s cases.
Again, Ms. Ryan has wrapped her characters in a complicated mystery with a lot of moving parts. Mattie knows all the suspects are lying and she just keeps tugging one thread after another while Hurley works the case on his end. I love the trust they have in each other. They come up with theories and dig some more. They have no problem bringing suspects into “The Hole” to try to get to the truth. It is so much fun to follow all the breadcrumbs with them right up to the big reveal. I truly was at the edge of my seat. I was so impressed with Mattie. I was cheering and crying. Knowing this is probably the last book in the series, I was afraid about how the book was going to end.
The author uses the final chapter to put a lid on the mystery answering all the questions and presenting the motives and how they snowballed. She also leaves the characters in a very good place. The one thing she doesn’t do is slam the door completely shut on future stories. I hope someday down the road Mattie jumps into Annelise’s brain and pokes at her a lot to pick up the saga of Mattie and Hurley again. As I said, I love these characters, they are like old friends that I could make a short trip up the highway and visit again and again.
Thank you, Ms. Ryan. I found this series late in the game but once I started I was hooked. I really enjoy the humor you infuse into each story while giving us a fabulous mystery to escape into. I have now read everything you have written as Annelise Ryan and Allyson K. Abbott and am anxiously awaiting the release of Death in the Dark Woods, the second Monster Hunter Mystery. As long as you keep writing I will keep reading!
January 27, 2021
As a fan of this series, I think Dead Even is an awesome addition to the series.
Mattie Winston is a medicolegal investigator, working with the local coroner’s office.
Mattie is called out to attend to a body, and when her husband, detective Steve Hurley arrives at the scene, Mattie knows this won’t be a simple open and shut case.
I enjoy this series and am a long time fan of Mattie. She has a strong personality, but she has a tender side that we see in this book.
I’m looking forward to reading more in this series.
Mattie Winston is a medicolegal investigator, working with the local coroner’s office.
Mattie is called out to attend to a body, and when her husband, detective Steve Hurley arrives at the scene, Mattie knows this won’t be a simple open and shut case.
I enjoy this series and am a long time fan of Mattie. She has a strong personality, but she has a tender side that we see in this book.
I’m looking forward to reading more in this series.
April 8, 2021
Dead Even
Mattie Winston, Book, #12
Annelise Ryan
5 Stars
Synopsis:
In Sorenson, Wisconsin, a local bigshot is found with a pool cue through the heart—and Mattie Winston must untangle a web of lies to sink a killer . . .
In her previous career as a nurse, Mattie Winston’s job was to keep death at bay. Now, as a medicolegal investigator, she’s required to study death intimately—to figure out causes and timing, and help deduce whether it was natural or suspicious.
In the case of Montgomery “Monty” Dixon, a well-to-do Realtor, there can be little doubt: Broken pool cues do not embed themselves. Monty’s body is found in the game room of his lavish house, the walls adorned with photos of Monty and various celebrities. But as Mattie and husband Steve Hurley, a homicide detective, both know, money and connections can’t protect anyone from a killer.
The first suspect is Monty’s wife, Summer, who claims to have been at a cooking class at the time. When that alibi is served up as a fake, Summer moves to the top of the suspects list, but is soon joined by Monty’s ne’er-do-well son, Sawyer, who has racked up gambling debts he hoped his dad would pay off. Monty’s twin brother is engaging in shady financial deals. An affair, a Ponzi scheme, a disputed inheritance . . . there are as many motives as suspects, and soon Mattie and Hurley have turned up other, possibly related deaths.
Balancing a high-profile case with the demands of their increasingly stressful household isn’t easy. It’ll take all of Mattie’s skill—along with a lucky break or two—to stop a killer from racking up another victim. (Goodreads)
Review:
Whenever I read a book by this author I know that I am in for a real treat. I know that there will be suspense and family, and it will be a good book.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Mattie and Steve are great partners, both in life, parenting and crime solving. They respect each other, care about each other and will do anything for each other. The secondary characters add a lot to the story and are all very good friends to Mattie and Steve. They added a lot of humor to the story and a lot more depth.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and the book is a quick easy read. These descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning and I was taken on an intriguing ride. There was plenty of action and tension and I really liked that.
I would highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well plotted mystery. I think the books just keep getting better.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley.
Mattie Winston, Book, #12
Annelise Ryan
5 Stars
Synopsis:
In Sorenson, Wisconsin, a local bigshot is found with a pool cue through the heart—and Mattie Winston must untangle a web of lies to sink a killer . . .
In her previous career as a nurse, Mattie Winston’s job was to keep death at bay. Now, as a medicolegal investigator, she’s required to study death intimately—to figure out causes and timing, and help deduce whether it was natural or suspicious.
In the case of Montgomery “Monty” Dixon, a well-to-do Realtor, there can be little doubt: Broken pool cues do not embed themselves. Monty’s body is found in the game room of his lavish house, the walls adorned with photos of Monty and various celebrities. But as Mattie and husband Steve Hurley, a homicide detective, both know, money and connections can’t protect anyone from a killer.
The first suspect is Monty’s wife, Summer, who claims to have been at a cooking class at the time. When that alibi is served up as a fake, Summer moves to the top of the suspects list, but is soon joined by Monty’s ne’er-do-well son, Sawyer, who has racked up gambling debts he hoped his dad would pay off. Monty’s twin brother is engaging in shady financial deals. An affair, a Ponzi scheme, a disputed inheritance . . . there are as many motives as suspects, and soon Mattie and Hurley have turned up other, possibly related deaths.
Balancing a high-profile case with the demands of their increasingly stressful household isn’t easy. It’ll take all of Mattie’s skill—along with a lucky break or two—to stop a killer from racking up another victim. (Goodreads)
Review:
Whenever I read a book by this author I know that I am in for a real treat. I know that there will be suspense and family, and it will be a good book.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Mattie and Steve are great partners, both in life, parenting and crime solving. They respect each other, care about each other and will do anything for each other. The secondary characters add a lot to the story and are all very good friends to Mattie and Steve. They added a lot of humor to the story and a lot more depth.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and the book is a quick easy read. These descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning and I was taken on an intriguing ride. There was plenty of action and tension and I really liked that.
I would highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well plotted mystery. I think the books just keep getting better.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley.
May 2, 2024
Sad to close out the Mattie Winston series
March 23, 2021
4.75 stars
This is the twelfth book in the Mattie Winston series by Annelise Ryan.
This story was really interesting. Mattie has quite an interesting career as a medical investigator of the dead after having been a nurse for many years. Her husband, Steve, is a homicide detective with the police department. They have a couple of kids, a teenager and a toddler. I can’t imagine how they both make that work on a daily basis much less when a murder invades and puts more responsibility on their plate.
I think my favorite scene in the whole book is one that takes place in a grocery store where a woman standing in line ahead of her has too many items for the express lane. Talk about a karma moment right there. It is the little things like that which makes this book such a standout.
The whole mystery was just clever. There were so many facets beyond the normal mystery plotline that occurred here. It seemed so simple. A guy gets stabbed with a broken pool cue. Looked very open and shut just like a few other deaths that happened that same night that others handled. Then when Mattie gets involved, she gets to the nitty gritty uncovering the iceberg of everything hiding beneath the surface.
Such a good story. Just so much to love about this series I can’t get enough.
The one draw back I see is that the cover doesn't do this book justice. I actually bought a paperback of book nine. I gave it away before I even read it due to the cover turning me off. Now I wish I had that book back. Coincidently, I bought a number of books on my kindle in this series right after finishing it.
Highly recommended. Excellent book!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the twelfth book in the Mattie Winston series by Annelise Ryan.
This story was really interesting. Mattie has quite an interesting career as a medical investigator of the dead after having been a nurse for many years. Her husband, Steve, is a homicide detective with the police department. They have a couple of kids, a teenager and a toddler. I can’t imagine how they both make that work on a daily basis much less when a murder invades and puts more responsibility on their plate.
I think my favorite scene in the whole book is one that takes place in a grocery store where a woman standing in line ahead of her has too many items for the express lane. Talk about a karma moment right there. It is the little things like that which makes this book such a standout.
The whole mystery was just clever. There were so many facets beyond the normal mystery plotline that occurred here. It seemed so simple. A guy gets stabbed with a broken pool cue. Looked very open and shut just like a few other deaths that happened that same night that others handled. Then when Mattie gets involved, she gets to the nitty gritty uncovering the iceberg of everything hiding beneath the surface.
Such a good story. Just so much to love about this series I can’t get enough.
The one draw back I see is that the cover doesn't do this book justice. I actually bought a paperback of book nine. I gave it away before I even read it due to the cover turning me off. Now I wish I had that book back. Coincidently, I bought a number of books on my kindle in this series right after finishing it.
Highly recommended. Excellent book!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
April 6, 2021
In this twelfth instalment in the Mattie Winston Mysteries series by Annelise Ryan, the reader follows Mattie's life as a medicolegal investigator in her recent marriage to police detective Steve Hurley with her toddler son Matthew and Steve's teenage daughter, Emily. Mattie is supposed to be enjoying her night off but she and Hurley are called to an upmarket neighbourhood in Sorenson, Wisconsin where they find Montgomery, "Monty" Dixon, impaled upon a pool cue at his sprawling ranch, his blood spreading all around him and beginning to seep into the floor.
I picked up this series with Dead of Winter (book 10) and I really enjoyed this book, Dead Even not wanting to put it down. I really enjoyed the well fleshed out characters and the plot as Mattie and Hurley sifted through a host of possible suspects from the victim's rich family whilst they juggled their domestic lives.
Mattie is curious, formidable, and very determined in her approach and the diverse supporting characters were a hit for me as well; the reader is certainly treated to well-crafted characters. Annelise Ryan clearly loves to incorporate humour into her writing which I greatly appreciated. The pacing is rapid and there were many twists and surprises woven throughout. Whilst the storyline builds upon the previous books, the novel can easily be enjoyed as an individual read. I strongly recommend this book/ series to mystery readers and I'm aiming to read the first in the series, Working Stiff as well as revisiting Mattie in book thirteen.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I picked up this series with Dead of Winter (book 10) and I really enjoyed this book, Dead Even not wanting to put it down. I really enjoyed the well fleshed out characters and the plot as Mattie and Hurley sifted through a host of possible suspects from the victim's rich family whilst they juggled their domestic lives.
Mattie is curious, formidable, and very determined in her approach and the diverse supporting characters were a hit for me as well; the reader is certainly treated to well-crafted characters. Annelise Ryan clearly loves to incorporate humour into her writing which I greatly appreciated. The pacing is rapid and there were many twists and surprises woven throughout. Whilst the storyline builds upon the previous books, the novel can easily be enjoyed as an individual read. I strongly recommend this book/ series to mystery readers and I'm aiming to read the first in the series, Working Stiff as well as revisiting Mattie in book thirteen.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
March 29, 2021
Dead Evan by Annelise Ryan is the 12th book in the Mattie Winston series, and another terrific addition. Mattie is an investigator for medical coroner in Wisconsin and her husband Detective Steve Hurley is a homicide detective and they work cases together. They live with their son, Matthew, a toddler, and Steve's teenage daughter, Emily, in their brand new home. In this book, Mattie and Steve are trying to solve the murder of a well to do Realtor who was killed in his home. I loved this book and did not want to put it down. There is so many story lines going on, you just want to keep reading to see what happens next. I really enjoy the well developed characters, and story line. This book also has great humor, which I always enjoy. Mattie and Steve are real people with real issues, and I love how they love and know each other. Please keep them coming. I strongly recommend this book/ series for any mystery readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 5, 2021
Mattie is back in this 12th book, working hard as a medical-legal death investigator, and trying to manage work and home life. She and Hurley are assigned the death of a wealth real estate mogul who was found stabbed to death by a pool cue in his mansion. Nothing seems to be adding up in this case, there is a gold-digging wife who is having and affair with the cook, an ungrateful son, who is always looking to his dad for a handout, and a meddlesome twin brother. Mattie and Hurley are also trying to manage home life. Matthew is an active three year old, who loves to wear his sisters clothing and color on the walls, and Emily is a 17 year old, about ready to leave for college. I love these books, they always keep me on my toes and I never know what's going to happen next!
August 30, 2021
I love this series so much. I love Mattie and the fact that she isn't perfect and is a lousy housekeeper, and her son dresses weird and throws fits just makes her character even more appealing. I also like that her relationship with Steve Hurly isn't great. A lot of cozy mysteries make couples just seem perfect and I like to see a normal relationship. I also loved the story line and I did guess the murderer the book is so well written I had to keep flipping the pages till the end. All the side characters are wonderful and this was such a good fast funny read.
July 19, 2021
Enjoyed this Mattie Winston mystery. First time reading this author. Main character smart and funny. Intriguing plot. Planning to read others in this series.
February 24, 2024
3.75 stars
May 27, 2025
Back to soap opera territory in this tale. And the MC is still divorced from reality.
The story line is tedious, obvious, and 'out there'. The reader might wonder if the editor read this or just signed off for a successful author.
The 3-4 page wrap-up reads more like the book outline the author perhaps intended to write. Odd and not satisfying.
The story line is tedious, obvious, and 'out there'. The reader might wonder if the editor read this or just signed off for a successful author.
The 3-4 page wrap-up reads more like the book outline the author perhaps intended to write. Odd and not satisfying.
February 20, 2021
“Dead Even,” book 12 in the Mattie Winston Mystery series, will have you questioning how well you really know someone and trying to bring to mind the proverbial expression…'it never rains, but it pours!'
Wisconsin nurse turned medicolegal investigator with the local coroner’s office, Mattie Winston, and her hunky husband, police homicide detective, Steve Hurley, are enjoying a rare night off together when they are both called to assist on a murder. Local real estate agent, Montgomery Dixon, has been found with a pool cue through his heart. As the investigation progresses, there’s a sizeable list of people who want Monty dead. It doesn’t take the team too long to narrow down the list and zero in on the real culprit. However, it puts Maddie and her toddler’s life in danger. Mattie puts it all on the line to outsmart the killer.
This cozy mystery is part of a series, but can stand alone. I love the author’s cast of characters and the attention she’s put in to crafting them. They are believable and realistic in their actions; the new wife who can’t find her way out of the kitchen but can work her way around men, the son from the first marriage who has his eye on his father’s money as well as money belonging to others, and a twin brother who can’t get anyone to take his advice! It’s refreshing to see career focused characters who struggle as real human beings with balancing their home and work life. Here we get a realistic view of marriage with its ups and downs and the potential to last if there are two committed people. I loved how they had to wait for a sitter to arrive before the other could leave for work and how a housekeeper helps to de-escalate stress at home. The plot is fast paced and Ryan orchestrates the twists and turns with just the precise timing you’d expect from an accomplished writer. Watch for it come March 30th.
Thanks to Annelise Ryan, Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Wisconsin nurse turned medicolegal investigator with the local coroner’s office, Mattie Winston, and her hunky husband, police homicide detective, Steve Hurley, are enjoying a rare night off together when they are both called to assist on a murder. Local real estate agent, Montgomery Dixon, has been found with a pool cue through his heart. As the investigation progresses, there’s a sizeable list of people who want Monty dead. It doesn’t take the team too long to narrow down the list and zero in on the real culprit. However, it puts Maddie and her toddler’s life in danger. Mattie puts it all on the line to outsmart the killer.
This cozy mystery is part of a series, but can stand alone. I love the author’s cast of characters and the attention she’s put in to crafting them. They are believable and realistic in their actions; the new wife who can’t find her way out of the kitchen but can work her way around men, the son from the first marriage who has his eye on his father’s money as well as money belonging to others, and a twin brother who can’t get anyone to take his advice! It’s refreshing to see career focused characters who struggle as real human beings with balancing their home and work life. Here we get a realistic view of marriage with its ups and downs and the potential to last if there are two committed people. I loved how they had to wait for a sitter to arrive before the other could leave for work and how a housekeeper helps to de-escalate stress at home. The plot is fast paced and Ryan orchestrates the twists and turns with just the precise timing you’d expect from an accomplished writer. Watch for it come March 30th.
Thanks to Annelise Ryan, Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 1, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Dead Even is the 12th book in the Mattie Winston procedural series by Annelise Ryan. Released 30th March 2021 by Kensington, it's 352 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a very well put together forensic procedural murder mystery with a solid ensemble cast including a medicolegal investigator and her husband who is a local homicide detective. They're working together to solve the murder of a businessman and real estate developer who is found with the jagged end of a pool cue stuck in him.
I enjoyed a lot of things with this mystery. Main character Mattie is unapologetic about who she is and she's competent, intelligent, and formidable (both in height and singularity of purpose). The dialogue is well written and natural. I found the first person narrative took a little getting used to, but once I got over that, the story flowed very well.
Although this story worked well enough as a standalone, there are a lot of spoilers for earlier books in the series, and I would recommend readers who intend to seek out the earlier books do so in order for the sake of continuity.
Very well done. I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Dead Even is the 12th book in the Mattie Winston procedural series by Annelise Ryan. Released 30th March 2021 by Kensington, it's 352 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a very well put together forensic procedural murder mystery with a solid ensemble cast including a medicolegal investigator and her husband who is a local homicide detective. They're working together to solve the murder of a businessman and real estate developer who is found with the jagged end of a pool cue stuck in him.
I enjoyed a lot of things with this mystery. Main character Mattie is unapologetic about who she is and she's competent, intelligent, and formidable (both in height and singularity of purpose). The dialogue is well written and natural. I found the first person narrative took a little getting used to, but once I got over that, the story flowed very well.
Although this story worked well enough as a standalone, there are a lot of spoilers for earlier books in the series, and I would recommend readers who intend to seek out the earlier books do so in order for the sake of continuity.
Very well done. I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Read
December 22, 2021Maddie Winston, medico-legal investigator, and her homicide-detective husband, Steve Hurley have been assigned to investigate the death of a wealthy local resident. The body of Montgomery “Monty” Dixon, local realtor, is found dead in his home with a pool cue in his chest.
Maddie and Steve have a list of suspects to dig through including Monty’s wife, son and twin brother, all who have a motive for murder and secrets to hide. Their investigation uncovers an affair, a Ponzi scheme, gambling debts, a disputed inheritance and more dead bodies. As demands on their personal and professional lives increase, they need to find the killer before they find another body.
This is the 12th book in the Maddie Winston series. I really enjoy reading this series, but any of the books can be read alone. The stories are fast paced and include the personal and professional sides of the main characters. The author includes enough forensic details to keep the crime interesting and lifelike. I like that Maddie has down-to-earth, everyday problems that everyone can relate to. I also enjoy the humor that is dispersed throughout the story. If you like mysteries, you will enjoy this book.
Robin W. / Marathon County Public Library
Find this book in our library catalog.
Maddie and Steve have a list of suspects to dig through including Monty’s wife, son and twin brother, all who have a motive for murder and secrets to hide. Their investigation uncovers an affair, a Ponzi scheme, gambling debts, a disputed inheritance and more dead bodies. As demands on their personal and professional lives increase, they need to find the killer before they find another body.
This is the 12th book in the Maddie Winston series. I really enjoy reading this series, but any of the books can be read alone. The stories are fast paced and include the personal and professional sides of the main characters. The author includes enough forensic details to keep the crime interesting and lifelike. I like that Maddie has down-to-earth, everyday problems that everyone can relate to. I also enjoy the humor that is dispersed throughout the story. If you like mysteries, you will enjoy this book.
Robin W. / Marathon County Public Library
Find this book in our library catalog.
April 20, 2021
Dead Even by Annelise Ryan (Mattie Winston #12) 4 stars
Mattie Winston, a medicolegal death investigator in Sorenson, Wisconsin is called out to attend the death of Montgomery Dixon. Mr. Dixon, a successful real estate agent is discovered in his home with a broken cue stick in his chest. Mattie is tasked with recording the crime scene, gathering physical evidence and prepping the body for transport to the morgue. She and primary investigator, Steve Hurley will have to figure out who had motive, means and opportunity to kill Montgomery Dixon.
This is the 12th book in the series and the first one that I have read. I found this book to be well written. The investigative process was mapped out and fair to the reader. I initially thought that this was a cozy mystery, but this is a little more action packed and scary than what I would consider a traditional cozy. Since I haven't read any other books in the series, I feel as if I came into the story late when it comes to the characters and their relationships. However, I felt that it did not detract from the structure of the the mystery. I enjoyed reading it and want to try reading some of the previous books.
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Books for this ARC.
Mattie Winston, a medicolegal death investigator in Sorenson, Wisconsin is called out to attend the death of Montgomery Dixon. Mr. Dixon, a successful real estate agent is discovered in his home with a broken cue stick in his chest. Mattie is tasked with recording the crime scene, gathering physical evidence and prepping the body for transport to the morgue. She and primary investigator, Steve Hurley will have to figure out who had motive, means and opportunity to kill Montgomery Dixon.
This is the 12th book in the series and the first one that I have read. I found this book to be well written. The investigative process was mapped out and fair to the reader. I initially thought that this was a cozy mystery, but this is a little more action packed and scary than what I would consider a traditional cozy. Since I haven't read any other books in the series, I feel as if I came into the story late when it comes to the characters and their relationships. However, I felt that it did not detract from the structure of the the mystery. I enjoyed reading it and want to try reading some of the previous books.
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Books for this ARC.
March 26, 2021
I have read and enjoyed every book in this series and this is another exciting addition. I enjoy the way the author has developed the lives of the characters, their strengths and imperfections as well as their family dynamics. The main character Mattie Winston is a medicolegal death investigator. She is married to homicide detective Steve Hurley and their immediate family includes his teen daughter and their toddler son Matthew (who is a hoot). They don’t realize that the wealthy man who was murdered with a pool cue is the beginning of a twisted mystery involving greed and family dynamics. If you like a series where many of the characters, as their lives evolve, continue through the books then this is for you. The investigation is thorough as Mattie & Steve bounce ideas off of each other to find the killer. You could read this as a standalone as the author provides enough back story that you won’t feel lost, but you would miss out on the continuing characters and the other great books. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
November 4, 2021
Great book! I find this series to be very intriguing and I always have a hard time putting the book down. Mattie and Hurley are called to the scene of a man (Monty) who was stabbed to death with a pool cue. The main suspects include the man's wife, his son, his twin brother, and a woman whom he had recently fired. When Mattie and Hurley visit the home of the woman who had been fired, Taylor, they find her dead from an apparent suicide. Things start to get interesting when Mattie tries to contact some people who had invested with Monty's investment broker. Two of the three people were recently killed and their money mysteriously disappeared. Hurley is convinced the son is the killer, but Mattie starts thinking that some things aren't adding up. A book full of intrigue and interesting characters. I like how the police and the medical examiner's office employees all work so well together. Mattie and Hurley's life is never boring and I look forward to seeing what's next for them!
June 2, 2022
A Mattie Winston Mystery Book 12
Successful Real Estate Agent, Montgomery Dixon is found dead with a broken pool cue sticking out of his chest. Mattie Winston, a Medicolegal Death Investigator, and her husband, Steve Hurley, a homicide detective, work together to find out who was responsible for Monty’s death.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I loved it! The book is well written with great descriptions of people, places, scenery, and crime scene procedures. It was an easy read, not too technical, but had a great vocabulary. I loved the husband/wife team. Mattie and Steve were full of imperfections, but their relationship was solid. I really connected with them, their family, and friends. I loved how they flirted with each other. I felt like I was reading a crime tv show. I would highly recommend this book to mystery enthusiasts!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Successful Real Estate Agent, Montgomery Dixon is found dead with a broken pool cue sticking out of his chest. Mattie Winston, a Medicolegal Death Investigator, and her husband, Steve Hurley, a homicide detective, work together to find out who was responsible for Monty’s death.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I loved it! The book is well written with great descriptions of people, places, scenery, and crime scene procedures. It was an easy read, not too technical, but had a great vocabulary. I loved the husband/wife team. Mattie and Steve were full of imperfections, but their relationship was solid. I really connected with them, their family, and friends. I loved how they flirted with each other. I felt like I was reading a crime tv show. I would highly recommend this book to mystery enthusiasts!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
August 19, 2022
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Mattie is happy that she and her husband, Hurley, have the weekend off. Although they often work together with her as a medicolegal investigator and he as a detective for the local homicide department, it will be nice to have some time off together to spend with their toddler son and teenage daughter. However, when their town and the surrounding county have a rush on unattended deaths, they are both called into work.
Local real estate broker Montgomery “Monty” Dixon is found dead, stabbed in the chest with a broken pool cue. The is no shortage of suspects including his cheating wife and gambling son. Can Mattie and Hurley solve the case while dealing with toddler meltdowns and trying to hire a housekeeper?
I really like this series. The characters are relatable and fun, the stories are good, and there is enough snark to make it believable! I definitely recommend!
Mattie is happy that she and her husband, Hurley, have the weekend off. Although they often work together with her as a medicolegal investigator and he as a detective for the local homicide department, it will be nice to have some time off together to spend with their toddler son and teenage daughter. However, when their town and the surrounding county have a rush on unattended deaths, they are both called into work.
Local real estate broker Montgomery “Monty” Dixon is found dead, stabbed in the chest with a broken pool cue. The is no shortage of suspects including his cheating wife and gambling son. Can Mattie and Hurley solve the case while dealing with toddler meltdowns and trying to hire a housekeeper?
I really like this series. The characters are relatable and fun, the stories are good, and there is enough snark to make it believable! I definitely recommend!
March 24, 2021
Someone really really didn't like real estate agent Montgomery Dixon- and they put a pool cue through his heart to prove it. Mattie Winston, a medico-legal investigator and her husband Detective Steve Hurley find themselves sorting through a pack of possible suspects even as they juggle their personal life. Cozy fans knows that the most obvious villain is not the killer and Ryan has a knack for keeping it twisty. I'm a fan of this series (and this latest will be fine as a standalone) because of the interaction between Mattie and Steve. There's a lot of pressure with any blended family and that's the case here as well. Mattie has a good sense of humor and a dogged determination to get to the truth, especially when she, and her family, are threatened. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read for cozy fans.
March 30, 2021
This is the 12th in this popular series "Mattie Winston" by cozy author Annelise Ryan. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own.
Our protagonist Mattie is a medical investigator studying death and its causes. She is a master at finding clues that lead to suspects. She solves crimes with her husband a detective. In this next mystery a wealthy resident is murdered with a pool cue. As Matter proceeds through the plethora of suspects in the victims rich family she finds many motives for murder that eventually lead them to the killer.
I enjoy this series for the charcters and the sleuthing. Mattie is a likable, focused investigator and I enjoy how the author crafts the sleuth with red herrings to keep the reader guessing. I did not guess the ending and was pleasingly surprised. This is a enjoyable next in series.
Our protagonist Mattie is a medical investigator studying death and its causes. She is a master at finding clues that lead to suspects. She solves crimes with her husband a detective. In this next mystery a wealthy resident is murdered with a pool cue. As Matter proceeds through the plethora of suspects in the victims rich family she finds many motives for murder that eventually lead them to the killer.
I enjoy this series for the charcters and the sleuthing. Mattie is a likable, focused investigator and I enjoy how the author crafts the sleuth with red herrings to keep the reader guessing. I did not guess the ending and was pleasingly surprised. This is a enjoyable next in series.
January 28, 2021
Life is a crazy ride for Mattie most days, but it seems to have reached a new level. Between her and Hurley's job, 2 kids, and big house, there is never a moment to breath, much less have any alone time for the working couple. Seeing a marriage counselor has helped, and now the possibility of a part-time housekeeper seems like an easy way to lower the heat. Only, Hurley is not so convinced. Now, they are caught up in a double murder and investigation uncovers a possible series of murders all surrounding a questionable financial planner. Having figured out the real culprit, Mattie's life is in danger along with her son's. Will she be able to outsmart the murderer? What will life hold next for Mattie and Hurley?
July 6, 2021
In what must have felt like the world's longest weekend, Mattie and Hurley are called in on their weekend off for a murder by cue stick! And the case gets stranger by the hour. Along with job related discoveries come household demands from hiring a cleaning woman to fixing toddler Mathew's self-inflicted haircut. I love the balance between the grim details of their jobs and the humor often expressed in escapades with Matthew. I laughed at his utility belt made from an article of his sister's clothing!
In short, this is a book that offers slices of life in the Hurley family and of their work lives. There are so many interesting details, and will appeal to everyone and a variety of ages. This is a terrific series that continues getting better and better!
In short, this is a book that offers slices of life in the Hurley family and of their work lives. There are so many interesting details, and will appeal to everyone and a variety of ages. This is a terrific series that continues getting better and better!
March 31, 2021
Death Examiner Mattie Winston is looking for a quiet weekend off with her husband, Detective Steve Hurley, and their small son, Matthew. However, people are dropping like flies in Sorenson, WI, and the surrounding area. Most of the deaths are not suspicious, but the sheer number stresses the small police department. Mattie and Hurley are called to an upscale neighborhood, where they find Montgomery, "Monty" Dixon, impaled upon a pool cue. The much younger wife, Summer, is the first suspect. Summer is hardly a distraught widow, especially when she finds that her realtor husband is flat broke rather than being well-off. Then, Monty's son, Sawyer, is saddled with large gambling debts to some very unsavory people. To round up the suspect pool, Monty's twin brother is a shady businessman with financial troubles of his own.
As they are deeply involved in the case a domestic difficulty ratchets up to a real friction point between Hurley and Mattie. Juggling a busy work life, trying to manage her son and household chores is getting to be a problem for Mattie, despite help from family and friends. They are interviewing candidates for a part-time housekeeper but Hurley is resistant to having a stranger in the house. The parade of possible employees provides the humor that this series is known for. Hurley and Mattie manage to solve the case without blowing up either their house or their marriage.
I can hardly believe that this is the twelfth book in this series. All the characters, supporting and main, have evolved naturally, and keep the series fresh. I enjoy the wealth of forensic detail included in each book. Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an advance digital copy. The opinions are my own.
RATING- 4 Stars
As they are deeply involved in the case a domestic difficulty ratchets up to a real friction point between Hurley and Mattie. Juggling a busy work life, trying to manage her son and household chores is getting to be a problem for Mattie, despite help from family and friends. They are interviewing candidates for a part-time housekeeper but Hurley is resistant to having a stranger in the house. The parade of possible employees provides the humor that this series is known for. Hurley and Mattie manage to solve the case without blowing up either their house or their marriage.
I can hardly believe that this is the twelfth book in this series. All the characters, supporting and main, have evolved naturally, and keep the series fresh. I enjoy the wealth of forensic detail included in each book. Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an advance digital copy. The opinions are my own.
RATING- 4 Stars
March 31, 2021
Not an unbiased review: I live in Wisconsin, and have a similar job history to main character. Use of present tense very disconcerting much of the time, other than that, I loved the way the mystery played out! The two main characters are beyond overbooked in their personal and professional lives and the current investigations are not only unusual but filled with more than the usual liars.
Complex characters that many of us could have met and interacted with, solid plot with misdirections, twists, and outright red herrings all add up to a very fine read. No spoilers here.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
Complex characters that many of us could have met and interacted with, solid plot with misdirections, twists, and outright red herrings all add up to a very fine read. No spoilers here.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
September 6, 2025
Well, much to my sorrow we're at the end of the Mattie Winston series.
I never thought I would willingly read books about a deputy coroner and all the death involved, but they were done with such humor and life I got hooked.
And anyone can relate to the angst of a working mother trying to give her best to her job, her marriage, and her children. It's an eternal dilemma. I really enjoyed these books so much and got totally invested in the lives of Mattie, Steve, and the rest of the crew.
Goodbye, Mattie. I know Anneliese has other series, so hopefully I will meet up with you in future books.
I never thought I would willingly read books about a deputy coroner and all the death involved, but they were done with such humor and life I got hooked.
And anyone can relate to the angst of a working mother trying to give her best to her job, her marriage, and her children. It's an eternal dilemma. I really enjoyed these books so much and got totally invested in the lives of Mattie, Steve, and the rest of the crew.
Goodbye, Mattie. I know Anneliese has other series, so hopefully I will meet up with you in future books.
June 28, 2021
This book was better than the last one but it has lost its edge. The worst thing with this character was getting married. I loved when she had great neighbors and created a bond with them. She used to be so funny and thats what I loved about her. then she got married and became a better detective than her husband and they should never be working cases together. I think this is the fourth time she has almost gotten killed. Story line needs to change. I keep hoping for the funny silly woman she used to be.
August 26, 2021
When a local businessman is found murdered, medicolegal investigator (that is, medical examiner's assistant) Mattie Winston is called out, as is her husband Steve Hurley, a homicide cop. As the case unfolds, and as Mattie also copes with a teenaged stepdaughter, a rambunctious toddler, her newly-found father, and a disordered house, she and Steve find many motives for the killing. It seems as though Steve has a likely suspect, but there are things about the case that niggle at Mattie's mind--until she finds the shocking truth that involves other dead bodies as well.
March 31, 2021
Great continuation of the series. The characters are still evolving including the little ones. It was good to see that the author did not chose to make the characters flawless and were still working on their relationships and themselves. This makes it more realistic.
As far as the mystery goes, I have to say I changed my mind a couple of times on who did it. This is always a fun twist wtih books that keeps them interesting.
Can't wait for the next one!
As far as the mystery goes, I have to say I changed my mind a couple of times on who did it. This is always a fun twist wtih books that keeps them interesting.
Can't wait for the next one!
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