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Parks Pat Mystery #1
Out with the Sunset
There’s nothing like jumping straight into the deep end.
Margie Patenaude is new in town and wasn’t expecting to get called to a murder scene on her daughter’s first day of school.
It’s an ugly murder in a beautiful setting. How can Calgary’s park-goers feel safe with a murderer still on the streets—or pathways? Margie and the team are on the case while at the same time she and her daughter try to acclimatize to the new city.
If she wants her coworkers to believe that she’s not just a ‘diversity hire,’ she needs to show them what she’s made of and track this killer down.
Margie Patenaude is new in town and wasn’t expecting to get called to a murder scene on her daughter’s first day of school.
It’s an ugly murder in a beautiful setting. How can Calgary’s park-goers feel safe with a murderer still on the streets—or pathways? Margie and the team are on the case while at the same time she and her daughter try to acclimatize to the new city.
If she wants her coworkers to believe that she’s not just a ‘diversity hire,’ she needs to show them what she’s made of and track this killer down.
156 pages, Paperback
First published July 16, 2021
111 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
P.D. Workman
230 books502 followersAward-winning Canadian author P.D. Workman has written over a hundred addictive page-turners featuring diverse and divergent sleuths, high-stakes investigations, and stories that linger long after the last page. Her books dive deep into characters’ minds while exploring timely social issues through fast-paced, emotionally charged plots. Readers praise her work for its powerful emotional truth combined with unputdownable suspense.
Shunning sleep, when Workman is not writing, formatting, or marketing, she’s probably running, reading, or spending time with her family.
Check out her catalogue at pdworkman.com to start your next page-turner and sign up for news and special deals.
Shunning sleep, when Workman is not writing, formatting, or marketing, she’s probably running, reading, or spending time with her family.
Check out her catalogue at pdworkman.com to start your next page-turner and sign up for news and special deals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 14, 2022
Yet another PD Workman series, although this one I’m not quite as thrilled about. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed this book or I wouldn’t be recommending it. But I don’t think it is quite as good as the other PD Workman books I’ve read and recommended.
Métis detective Margie Patenaude has moved to Calgary with her teenage daughter, and before she can even get said daughter off to school on her first day, Margie has a murder case. Not wanting her new colleagues to think she’s just a “diversity hire,” she struggles to juggle the case with her daughter’s needs and those of her elderly grandfather in a nearby home for the aged.
What is absolutely great about this story – the characters! Especially Margie who is well-drawn with a lot of depth and possibilities for development. And woven into the story are some details about the infamous schools for indigenous children in Canada, as Margie’s grandfather was a student at one of them.
Insights from his experiences turn out to be crucial for Margie to solve her first murder case in her new town. I hope her grandfather plays a role in future books in this series as well.
Because, yes, I will be reading more of this series (Book 2 is already on my Kindle), even though I felt that the plot in this one was not as well developed as it could have been. And I won’t say more so as not to spoil anything.
Despite that issue, I feel that this story still deserves 4 stars.
Métis detective Margie Patenaude has moved to Calgary with her teenage daughter, and before she can even get said daughter off to school on her first day, Margie has a murder case. Not wanting her new colleagues to think she’s just a “diversity hire,” she struggles to juggle the case with her daughter’s needs and those of her elderly grandfather in a nearby home for the aged.
What is absolutely great about this story – the characters! Especially Margie who is well-drawn with a lot of depth and possibilities for development. And woven into the story are some details about the infamous schools for indigenous children in Canada, as Margie’s grandfather was a student at one of them.
Insights from his experiences turn out to be crucial for Margie to solve her first murder case in her new town. I hope her grandfather plays a role in future books in this series as well.
Because, yes, I will be reading more of this series (Book 2 is already on my Kindle), even though I felt that the plot in this one was not as well developed as it could have been. And I won’t say more so as not to spoil anything.
Despite that issue, I feel that this story still deserves 4 stars.
September 17, 2025
Out with the Sunset struck me as less of a story and more of a platform for pushing a left-leaning narrative. Much of the focus was on characters seeing themselves primarily through the lens of oppression and minority identity. The repeated emphasis on systemic oppression and identity politics overshadowed the plot and character development for me.
June 30, 2021
What an intriguing story. Murder wasn’t supposed to be part of the plan. Unfortunately there was no choice, it definitely has to be solved. Thoroughly enjoyable.
August 11, 2024
I really liked this “preview“ to this series by P.D. Workman. I will definitely continue with it.
Margie has taken a new job in Calgary, Canada with the homicide department. That involves a move and her 15 year old daughter doesn’t appreciate the uprooting. It doesn’t help that the first day of school there is a homicide. It’s in a large area near where they live. I like how the author leads us through the process they used to track down the murderer.
I own this novella I didn’t pay for it but not sure where I got it. That did not affect my honest review.
Margie has taken a new job in Calgary, Canada with the homicide department. That involves a move and her 15 year old daughter doesn’t appreciate the uprooting. It doesn’t help that the first day of school there is a homicide. It’s in a large area near where they live. I like how the author leads us through the process they used to track down the murderer.
I own this novella I didn’t pay for it but not sure where I got it. That did not affect my honest review.
September 16, 2025
Margie Patenaude, a new hire with the Calgary homicide unit, is called to a murder scene in a local park. Though she and her daughter have only just made the move from Winnipeg, her knowledge of people is universal, and Margie will use every tool in her kit to solve this crime.
I really wanted to like this series, but I had a hard time getting into the story. It began with the author's note that American spelling was going to be used, even in place names, and that rankled me. So perhaps I wasn't in the right headspace to enjoy the story. The mother-daughter relationship was spot on, though and reminded me of my own mum who despaired of me from time to time! Tiptoeing around a teenager is no easy task. I also loved the relationship between the two and Moushoom, the grandfather, so loving and respectful.
As a police procedural, Out with the Sunset feels true to life with all the "shoe-leather" detecting that goes along with the job. I will read more in this series (perhaps when I'm less prickly).
I really wanted to like this series, but I had a hard time getting into the story. It began with the author's note that American spelling was going to be used, even in place names, and that rankled me. So perhaps I wasn't in the right headspace to enjoy the story. The mother-daughter relationship was spot on, though and reminded me of my own mum who despaired of me from time to time! Tiptoeing around a teenager is no easy task. I also loved the relationship between the two and Moushoom, the grandfather, so loving and respectful.
As a police procedural, Out with the Sunset feels true to life with all the "shoe-leather" detecting that goes along with the job. I will read more in this series (perhaps when I'm less prickly).
September 20, 2021
Out With the Sunset - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Having moved them both to Calgary from Winnipeg, Cree Homicide Detective Margie,(Marguerite), Patenaude's, (aka 'Parks Pat') first case as lead investigator, has come on the same day her teen daughter Christina starts a new school. As asked, Margie had promised to go with her, up until the call came. But murder won't wait, so Margie heads off to Fish Creek Park and along the Deerfoot Trail to face death head on and find out 'whodunnit'. How did Jerry Robinson die?
What vital insight to her case, comes from Margie and Christina's visit to Margie's father, Mashoum?
A charming tale, but one with a dark undertone, as PD Workman expertly tells of how childhood trauma under gruelling and ongoing circumstances, has the ability to mould reactions to future - potentially tragic - events.
Read Out With the Sunset and prepare to be both shaken and emotionally stirred!
Having moved them both to Calgary from Winnipeg, Cree Homicide Detective Margie,(Marguerite), Patenaude's, (aka 'Parks Pat') first case as lead investigator, has come on the same day her teen daughter Christina starts a new school. As asked, Margie had promised to go with her, up until the call came. But murder won't wait, so Margie heads off to Fish Creek Park and along the Deerfoot Trail to face death head on and find out 'whodunnit'. How did Jerry Robinson die?
What vital insight to her case, comes from Margie and Christina's visit to Margie's father, Mashoum?
A charming tale, but one with a dark undertone, as PD Workman expertly tells of how childhood trauma under gruelling and ongoing circumstances, has the ability to mould reactions to future - potentially tragic - events.
Read Out With the Sunset and prepare to be both shaken and emotionally stirred!
Want to read
October 1, 2021Author gift
April 29, 2023
OUT WITH THE SUNSET is the first book in the PARKS PAT MYSTERIES series and it held my interest from the first page to the last. Set in Calgary, Canada, Margie, or Pat as she's sometimes called due to her last name, is the detective in charge of a murder case set in a nearby park even though she's new to the department - like first day on the job, new. Her ethnicity is Métis who are people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, and one of the three recognized Aboriginal peoples in Canada. It was interesting to learn about her heritage through her and her teenage daughter, Christina's lives as well as those of Margie's grandfather, Moushoom, as he's called. This added another level and richness to the story.
The story takes us through the murder investigation as we also learn about Margie and her family's lives. The story had a nice flow and had a few different storylines being told. There is some closure but the epilogue definitely alerts us to some future darkness where Marge is concerned, is filled with suspense and gave me chills. The information on Fresh Creek Provincial Park was interesting as was the Author's note. The preview of the first chapter in the next book in the series, LONG CLIMB TO THE TOP, whet my appetite for more.
Ms. Workman is an author whose books I've enjoyed in both the mystery and paranormal genre.
The story takes us through the murder investigation as we also learn about Margie and her family's lives. The story had a nice flow and had a few different storylines being told. There is some closure but the epilogue definitely alerts us to some future darkness where Marge is concerned, is filled with suspense and gave me chills. The information on Fresh Creek Provincial Park was interesting as was the Author's note. The preview of the first chapter in the next book in the series, LONG CLIMB TO THE TOP, whet my appetite for more.
Ms. Workman is an author whose books I've enjoyed in both the mystery and paranormal genre.
September 20, 2021
Out With the Sunset is the first book in a series about Parks Pat, a Metis Detective from Manitoba who moves with her teenage daughter Christina to the Calgary Area to become part of the team on the Police force in Calgary. On her first day, as she prepares to take her daughter to her first day at school, Margie “Parks Pat” Patenaude receives a page to report for duty asap for her first murder case. Reluctantly, she leaves her daughter to join the team at a nearby park where the murder has occurred. A man has been stabbed to death and then left to be discovered by passersby. Margie is quickly drawn into the investigation and has to balance her life as a single mother and member of the Metis tribe with being an officer of the law, and the only First People on the payroll at that.
The author has done a fantastic job in the past of bringing us into the lives of many different kinds of people and situations, sometimes going beyond the comfortable and into the seamier side of life. She has dealt with subjects such as drug abuse, child abuse, suicide, mental health issues, always candidly and with a sense of realism that leaves you wondering just how much is made up and how much is taken from real stories. She does her homework and this set is no different.
The author has done a fantastic job in the past of bringing us into the lives of many different kinds of people and situations, sometimes going beyond the comfortable and into the seamier side of life. She has dealt with subjects such as drug abuse, child abuse, suicide, mental health issues, always candidly and with a sense of realism that leaves you wondering just how much is made up and how much is taken from real stories. She does her homework and this set is no different.
February 2, 2022
Margie and her daughter Christina find that moving to a new city causes stress and friction. Especially when Margie is a new detective on the police force and must prove herself to her peers and superiors. Promises to her daughter sometimes cannot be kept, making the transition for Christina even more difficult.
When a mysterious crime is dumped on Margie's lap, she jumps into solving it with all her energy. She does her best to find suspects, but one after one they don't turn out to be viable. But she keeps at it. She has good instincts and leaves no stone unturned. She goes out of her way to smooth things over with Christina as she continues to adjust to a new home and school enviroment.
The story is a good example of how tedious detective work can be. Long hours sifting through clues, looking for a breakthrough. Margie's perseverance pays off and she solves the crime, and ends up doing some good for a family who were caught in the cultural differences between Canada and their homeland. A heartwarming ending to the story.
When a mysterious crime is dumped on Margie's lap, she jumps into solving it with all her energy. She does her best to find suspects, but one after one they don't turn out to be viable. But she keeps at it. She has good instincts and leaves no stone unturned. She goes out of her way to smooth things over with Christina as she continues to adjust to a new home and school enviroment.
The story is a good example of how tedious detective work can be. Long hours sifting through clues, looking for a breakthrough. Margie's perseverance pays off and she solves the crime, and ends up doing some good for a family who were caught in the cultural differences between Canada and their homeland. A heartwarming ending to the story.
May 7, 2021
Detective Pat (Margie Patenaude) has recently moved to Calgary from Winnipeg with her daughter, Christina. They are Métis, or one the Aboriginal tribes in Canada. The first day of school, Margie is called out early to a crime scene off the trail in Fish Creek, one of the large Alberta parks. Margie is the Detective on call and is taken to the scene by a Conservation Officer. I thought this was a really fascinating short story, both for the education about the Métis, the way the story unfolded and the methods Maggie took to investigate it! You also get a look at the difficulties Christina is having to start as a new, and different looking, teen in High School. I am looking forward to reading the next one and continuing the story. I received this book free from the author and write this review voluntarily.
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October 9, 2021Out with the Sunset introduces us to Workman's newest series. Margie Patenaude is a homicide detective who's just relocated to Calgary (from Winnipeg) with her teenage daughter in tow.
For me this one gets top marks for writing, editing, Indigenous representation, Canadian content – and for highlighting Canada's horrific past with regard to residential schools.
However, I'm not entirely comfortable with the resolution. Was it handled more sensitively and compassionately than some other writers would have done? Absolutely. But did this story need to be told? Especially in a world where I'm not convinced.
I believe the author's intentions are good. But not every story that could exist needs to be told.
For me this one gets top marks for writing, editing, Indigenous representation, Canadian content – and for highlighting Canada's horrific past with regard to residential schools.
However, I'm not entirely comfortable with the resolution. Was it handled more sensitively and compassionately than some other writers would have done? Absolutely. But did this story need to be told? Especially in a world where I'm not convinced.
I believe the author's intentions are good. But not every story that could exist needs to be told.
September 12, 2021
Out with the Sunset is the first book in the Parks Pat Mysteries series by P.D. Workman.
Margie Patenaude, is a Métis homicide detective who recently moved to Calgary with Christie, her teenage daughter. She moved for her job and to be close to her grandfather.
It is a really interesting story that is very topical. There are interesting characters and it is refreshing to have the main character be the police instead of someone that the police are telling to stay out of the investigation. The way this ended has me looking forward to the next book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Margie Patenaude, is a Métis homicide detective who recently moved to Calgary with Christie, her teenage daughter. She moved for her job and to be close to her grandfather.
It is a really interesting story that is very topical. There are interesting characters and it is refreshing to have the main character be the police instead of someone that the police are telling to stay out of the investigation. The way this ended has me looking forward to the next book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 25, 2025
Out with the Sunset is an interesting mystery with a calm steady pace. The setting in the park is described well and gives the story a peaceful but slightly uneasy tone. The main character works hard to uncover the truth and there are a few moments that keep the reader curious about what will happen next.
While the plot has good ideas the story does move slowly at times and some parts feel like they could have had more tension or detail. Still it is a decent start to the series and readers who enjoy gentle mysteries with a thoughtful lead may enjoy this book.
While the plot has good ideas the story does move slowly at times and some parts feel like they could have had more tension or detail. Still it is a decent start to the series and readers who enjoy gentle mysteries with a thoughtful lead may enjoy this book.
May 12, 2021
This is an excellent start to a new mystery novella series! I love this author’s work. After moving to a new Canadian city, Margie is handed a murder on her first day on the job as Homicide detective. The writing is excellent, the plot is nice and twisty and the the characters and situations are believable. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to seeing where she takes these new characters. I received this book free and chose to make a voluntary, unbiased review.
June 26, 2021
This is a new series which is set in Calgary and center in the various parks in the area. Marguerite Patenaude is a homicide detective who has newly moved to the area along with her 15-year-old daughter. “Pat” draws her first assignment to solve the murder of a man who has been killed in Fish Creek Park. I enjoyed the characters and the story.
May 9, 2022
Very interesting story
I found this to be a very interesting story, both because I think it is a great story and reminding me of the fate of the indigenous people of not only Canada or North Americans but also the Hawaiian people who were placed in schools that were trying to make them forget their heritage and act as if they were white. Great detective story.
I found this to be a very interesting story, both because I think it is a great story and reminding me of the fate of the indigenous people of not only Canada or North Americans but also the Hawaiian people who were placed in schools that were trying to make them forget their heritage and act as if they were white. Great detective story.
October 11, 2021
Margie Patenaude, a Metis detective, with her daughter Christina have moved to Calgary. On her first day of work Margeie is called out to a dead body of a stabbed man in Hull’s Wood, Fish Creek Park. Not a complex mystery and was a quick read.
October 16, 2021
Out With the Sunset
Margie has taken a new job and her daughter, Christina, is not happy. It was very interesting how Margie came to solve the case. P.D. Workman gives wonderful background information on life as a child in Sudan, and Canadian residential schools.
Margie has taken a new job and her daughter, Christina, is not happy. It was very interesting how Margie came to solve the case. P.D. Workman gives wonderful background information on life as a child in Sudan, and Canadian residential schools.
September 27, 2025
Excellent Canadian mystery
The high quality storytelling is loaded with plenty of realistic, interesting characters. The colourful story details and personality depth really bringing the mystery to life!
The high quality storytelling is loaded with plenty of realistic, interesting characters. The colourful story details and personality depth really bringing the mystery to life!
May 17, 2021
Not a very intricate plot, but a good story with excellent characters. Short, easy to read and entertaining.
July 18, 2021
Great way to introduce the characters in this new series. I enjoyed it very much and may even have learned a thing or two. I can't wait for the next book.
August 3, 2021
1st book new series. Nice quick read. No romance. .. That being said I totally enjoyed this book and look forward to more in this series.
September 6, 2021
Binge-worthy❣️You are hooked as soon as you start reading...
Very anxious to read more . . .
Next please🐿️ More and more difficult to put down . . .
Very anxious to read more . . .
Next please🐿️ More and more difficult to put down . . .
November 22, 2021
Engaging and inf
Workman has done it again with this proming new series dealing with social issues and the treatment of the indigenous population.
Workman has done it again with this proming new series dealing with social issues and the treatment of the indigenous population.
October 5, 2023
nice short story
A fab book to sit and read in one sitting, curl up on the sofa with a cuppa. Looking forward to what’s in store first the detective and her daughter
A fab book to sit and read in one sitting, curl up on the sofa with a cuppa. Looking forward to what’s in store first the detective and her daughter
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September 15, 2025I liked the insights provided at the end of the story.
If you like stories about single parent raising teenager this might be a good story for you.
If you like stories about single parent raising teenager this might be a good story for you.
September 25, 2025
A good, short read. Obviously, there will be sequels.
November 13, 2025
A quick and enjoyable read with a solid story. I found myself rooting for Margie and appreciated how she carried herself throughout. The characters were likable, and I enjoyed the way Margie interacted with them. I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
December 6, 2025
a little too light for me. I do like the main character being indigenous as there is the opportunity to include cultural aspects to investigation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews